Little Rock, Arkansas – Drivers across central Arkansas could face ponding on I-30 and I-40 by Wednesday afternoon as strong thunderstorms begin a multi-day stretch of heavy rain, hail and gusty winds that may linger into Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, a Slight Risk (2 of 5) for severe storms is in place Wednesday afternoon through late evening, with wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail up to quarter size possible. An isolated tornado cannot be ruled out, especially west of I-430 and north toward Conway and Russellville.
High temperatures will surge into the upper 70s to near 80 degrees Wednesday in Little Rock, Pine Bluff and Monticello, adding instability ahead of the approaching system. Storms are expected to develop west of I-30 during the early afternoon, then track east toward I-40, I-55 and the Mississippi River by early evening, potentially slowing the commute in West Memphis and Jonesboro.
Beyond Wednesday, multiple rounds of rain will target north and west Arkansas through Sunday night. Rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches are possible west of I-30, including Fort Smith, Fayetteville and Hot Springs. Localized higher amounts could trigger flash flooding in low-lying areas and near smaller creeks. South and east Arkansas, including Pine Bluff and Helena-West Helena, may see one primary round but could still receive over 2 inches.
Residents should secure loose outdoor items, charge mobile devices and avoid driving across water-covered roads. Additional advisories or flood watches may be issued as rainfall totals become clearer. The unsettled pattern holds through the weekend, with the next significant update expected by Wednesday morning.
