Little Rock, Ark. – Severe thunderstorms are expected to develop across Arkansas Thursday afternoon, bringing the risk of hail, damaging winds, and heavy rain. The National Weather Service in Little Rock warns some storms could produce wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail up to one inch in diameter.
According to forecasters, storm chances increase Thursday afternoon and continue into Friday evening, with the strongest activity expected late Friday. While widespread tornado activity is not likely, localized flooding, hazardous travel, and scattered power outages remain concerns in communities from Fayetteville to Pine Bluff.
In central Arkansas, including Little Rock and Conway, highs in the mid-90s Thursday will add to the unstable atmosphere, giving storms fuel to intensify. Farther north, Hardy and Jonesboro could see highs near 97 degrees before storms sweep through late day. The western counties, including Fort Smith and Mena, may see slightly cooler conditions but remain under a marginal severe weather risk.
Residents are urged to monitor conditions closely, charge electronic devices, and avoid driving through flooded roadways. Outdoor events Thursday and Friday may face delays or cancellations as storms track across the state.
Showers taper briefly over the weekend before another round of storms is expected early next week.
Five Day Forecast for Little Rock, Arkansas:
- Thursday: High 94, storms possible late, strong wind gusts.
- Friday: High 92, storms likely, heavy rainfall possible.
- Saturday: High 90, partly cloudy, isolated showers.
- Sunday: High 88, scattered showers, breezy at times.
- Monday: High 87, increasing rain chances, thunderstorms possible.
