Little Rock, Arkansas – Heavy rain drenched much of Arkansas Monday and is expected to continue into early Tuesday, bringing the risk of flash flooding to western, north central, and central counties. Residents in cities like Little Rock, Fort Smith, Russellville, and Fayetteville could see street flooding and hazardous travel as 2 to 4 inches of rain fall, with isolated areas reaching up to 5 inches by the time the Flood Watch ends at 1 p.m. Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, the greatest flooding threat will hit overnight and linger into Tuesday morning, especially in the Ozark foothills, Arkansas River Valley, and Interstate 40 corridor. Local officials urge drivers to avoid flooded roadways—particularly along US-64, US-65, and highways near the Arkansas River—where swift water could cause unexpected closures.
Cities under the watch include Harrison, Hot Springs, Mountain Home, Clinton, and Mena, as well as surrounding communities. Urban and rural roads may be impassable at times. Power outages are possible in low-lying neighborhoods, and flash flooding could disrupt school bus routes and early commutes. Residents are encouraged to keep cell phones charged, secure outdoor belongings, and have a safe route to higher ground if needed.
This is Arkansas’s first major flood event of July and comes just weeks after above-normal rainfall hit the region. The Flood Watch remains in effect until 1 p.m. Tuesday, with additional advisories possible if heavy rain persists.
