Little Rock, Arkansas – A developing storm system could bring a round of strong to potentially severe thunderstorms to eastern Arkansas on Friday afternoon and evening, raising concerns for damaging winds as a cold front sweeps through the region.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, there is currently a 15 percent chance of severe thunderstorms across eastern Arkansas on Friday. While the overall setup is still taking shape, forecasters say the primary hazard at this time is strong, gusty winds that could exceed 60 mph in the strongest storms. The threat is expected to increase Friday afternoon and persist into the evening hours as the front pushes east.
Areas most at risk include eastern counties from the Mississippi River westward toward Pine Bluff, Stuttgart, and portions of the Arkansas Delta. Storms may also impact travel along major corridors such as I-40, I-55, and US-79, where sudden wind gusts and heavy downpours could create hazardous driving conditions.
Forecasters emphasize that confidence remains limited this far out, and both storm coverage and intensity could change as the event draws closer. Residents are encouraged to stay weather-aware through the week, ensure multiple ways to receive alerts, and secure loose outdoor items ahead of Friday.
Additional updates, outlooks, or watches may be issued as the National Weather Service continues to refine the forecast.
