LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – A damp chill lingers in the early air across central Arkansas, and the gray horizon already hints at change. As families head home from Thanksgiving gatherings, clouds are thickening and winds are slowly shifting — a setup for a soggy, breezy Saturday and a much colder start to December.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, widespread rain develops late Friday evening and continues through much of Saturday. Gusty south winds, reaching up to 20 mph, will make travel along I-40 and I-30 slower at times, with wet pavement and reduced visibility likely during peak morning travel.
Showers begin tapering from west to east late Saturday as cooler air filters in. Highs drop from the 50s Saturday into the low 40s Sunday, then dip near freezing Sunday night. By Monday, the next system arrives, bringing a chance for light freezing rain or a brief wintry mix across parts of central and northern Arkansas — the first hint of early December winter weather.
Forecasters say confidence remains moderate on how far south the freezing line will dip, but residents north of the Arkansas River Valley should stay alert to slick spots during Monday morning commutes.
The pattern ahead leans colder overall, with early December shaping up well below normal for much of the region. This weekend’s rain signals a seasonal shift — one that may soon deliver frost, icy mornings, and more winter-like air deep into the South.
Five-Day Outlook for Little Rock, Arkansas
Friday: Mostly sunny, high 53°F.
Saturday: Showers, breezy, high 50°F.
Sunday: Partly sunny, high 43°F.
Monday: Chance of rain/freezing rain, high 35°F.
Tuesday: Sunny, high 42°F.
