Little Rock, Ark. – A tornado watch is now in effect for 35 counties across central and northeastern Arkansas, with severe weather expected to continue through 2 a.m. Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch 270 was issued at 6:50 p.m. CDT Friday and includes areas from Pulaski and Craighead to Mississippi and Garland counties. The watch cites the likelihood of a few tornadoes, hail up to the size of apples, and wind gusts reaching 75 mph.
Counties under the watch include Little Rock (Pulaski), Jonesboro (Craighead), Conway, Crittenden, Faulkner, White, Pope, and Yell, among others. Communities along the I-40 corridor and northeast into Clay, Mississippi, and Greene counties are particularly vulnerable overnight.
Power outages, tree damage, and dangerous road conditions are possible if storms intensify. Residents should charge devices, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay near shelter locations. Emergency officials urge those in mobile homes or poorly built structures to prepare alternate shelter plans.
This watch remains active until 2 a.m. CDT Saturday, May 17. Additional warnings or extensions may be issued as the system tracks eastward.
