Little Rock, AR – Residents across northwest Arkansas face a dual threat of large hail and damaging wind gusts reaching 60 mph as a series of storm systems begins moving through the region Tuesday morning. The primary concern centers on a corridor from Fort Smith to Fayetteville, where atmospheric instability could trigger severe cells capable of producing one-inch diameter hail and localized power outages through Wednesday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, a marginal risk for severe thunderstorms is in place for Tuesday and Wednesday, primarily affecting the northwest half of the state. Forecasters are monitoring an amplified southwesterly flow and a trough axis that will keep the weather pattern active through the upcoming weekend. While the rain is much needed to combat ongoing rainfall deficits and persistent burn bans, the intensity of these specific rounds brings a risk of property damage.
Impacts will be most pronounced along I-49 and Highway 412, where visibility may drop rapidly during heavy downpours. Residents in Harrison, Jasper, and Russellville should secure outdoor furniture and move vehicles under cover before Tuesday afternoon to mitigate hail damage. Despite the storm threat, temperatures will remain unseasonably warm, with highs climbing into the low 80s for much of the state.
The threat of intermittent showers and thunderstorms will persist well into Sunday morning as several storm systems traverse the Southern Plains. While a ridge may suppress rain chances in the southeast, those in central and northern Arkansas should remain weather-aware as new advisories may be issued by midweek.
Five Day Forecast for Little Rock, Arkansas
- Tuesday, April 14: 5% chance of rain, High 82°F
- Wednesday, April 15: 15% chance of rain, High 82°F
- Thursday, April 16: 65% chance of rain, High 70°F
- Friday, April 17: 5% chance of rain, High 75°F
- Saturday, April 18: 55% chance of rain, High 78°F
