Little Rock, Arkansas – Rain and thunderstorms are already increasing across Arkansas this morning, with impacts expected to intensify by mid-afternoon Friday as heavy downpours and lightning threaten travel on major routes including I-30, I-40, and I-49.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, rain chances will climb to 70–90% statewide today, with multiple rounds of storms continuing through Sunday. Friday’s storms could produce 0.5 to 2 inches of rain, with the heaviest totals focused from Fayetteville to Russellville to Searcy, where localized flooding may develop by evening.
Cities including Little Rock, Fort Smith, Hot Springs, Pine Bluff, Jonesboro, and West Memphis are all in the impact zone. Isolated strong to severe thunderstorms may develop, bringing wind gusts near 60 mph, large hail, and a low-end tornado threat—especially late this afternoon into the evening hours.
Drivers should expect ponding on roads, reduced visibility, and possible lane closures in flood-prone areas. Avoid driving through water-covered roads and secure outdoor items ahead of stronger storms.
Additional rounds of rain are likely Sunday, which could worsen flooding concerns. More updates are expected later today as conditions evolve and any warnings are issued.
