Little Rock, AR – A wide stretch of Arkansas is under a tornado watch until 7 p.m. CDT Saturday as the National Weather Service warns of conditions favorable for severe thunderstorms and possible tornado formation.
According to the Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma, Tornado Watch 122 was issued at 9:55 a.m. CDT and includes 37 counties across eastern, central, and southern Arkansas. Residents in counties such as Pulaski, Jefferson, Mississippi, and Craighead are urged to remain weather-aware throughout the afternoon and evening.
Counties under the watch also include urban and rural areas such as Little Rock, Jonesboro, Pine Bluff, and El Dorado. The alert spans from Arkansas County in the southeast to White County in the north-central region.
Authorities recommend residents review tornado safety plans, monitor local alerts, and be prepared to seek shelter quickly. Outdoor activities should be postponed, and those traveling should have multiple ways to receive emergency warnings.
Historically, early April brings increased tornado potential in the state due to warm, moist air from the Gulf mixing with upper-level disturbances. The most intense conditions are expected between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., aligning with peak daytime heating.
Updates will be issued as conditions evolve.
