Little Rock, Arkansas – A high-impact winter storm is set to hit Arkansas beginning at noon Friday, bringing dangerous travel, heavy snow, and significant ice through Sunday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from noon Friday through 6 p.m. Sunday for much of central, northern, western, and southern Arkansas. The most severe impacts are expected from Friday afternoon through Saturday night, with conditions deteriorating rapidly after noon.
Northern counties, including Baxter, Boone, Marion, and Newton, could see 4 to 10 inches of snow and sleet. Central Arkansas, including Pulaski, Faulkner, Saline, and Lonoke counties, is expected to receive 1 to 4 inches of sleet and snow. Southern and southeast Arkansas face the highest ice threat, with up to three-quarters of an inch of ice accumulation possible in places like Pine Bluff, Monticello, Camden, and Dumas.
Roads will become slick quickly, especially bridges and overpasses along I-40, I-30, I-530, and Highway 67/167. According to Arkansas Department of Transportation officials, travel may become impossible at times, particularly during the Friday evening commute. Power outages and tree damage are likely where ice accumulates.
Residents are urged to complete preparations before noon Friday. Charge devices, secure food and water, and avoid non-essential travel once precipitation begins. If travel is unavoidable, keep emergency supplies in your vehicle. The latest road conditions are available at idrivearkansas.com.
