Little Rock, AR – A tornado watch has been issued for a wide portion of central and northern Arkansas as the threat of severe storms intensifies across the region this afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma, Tornado Watch 97 is in effect until 4 p.m. CDT Wednesday and includes 27 counties across Arkansas. Counties under the watch include Baxter, Boone, Clark, Cleburne, Conway, Faulkner, Fulton, Garland, Hot Spring, Izard, Johnson, Logan, Marion, Montgomery, Newton, Perry, Pike, Polk, Pope, Pulaski, Saline, Scott, Searcy, Stone, Van Buren, and Yell.
Forecasters warn that conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes, large hail, and damaging wind gusts through the afternoon. Residents in the affected areas are urged to monitor weather alerts and be prepared to seek shelter quickly if warnings are issued.
Emergency preparedness officials recommend having multiple ways to receive weather alerts, such as weather radios and smartphone notifications, especially as storms can develop rapidly. Local authorities are on alert and ready to respond if severe weather strikes.
Schools, businesses, and families in the watch zone should review their safety procedures and ensure that safe shelters are accessible. Storms are expected to develop and intensify into the early afternoon, particularly as daytime heating increases atmospheric instability.
More updates will be issued as conditions evolve throughout the day. Stay with local weather outlets and the National Weather Service for the latest information.
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