Little Rock, Arkansas – Scattered severe storms could disrupt travel and outdoor plans statewide Friday afternoon through the evening, with damaging winds and large hail posing the greatest immediate threats.
According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, all of Arkansas is under a Level 2 out of 5 severe weather risk Friday, with a 15% probability of severe storms across much of the state. Forecasters say a frontal boundary will trigger storm development, with activity increasing through the afternoon and continuing into the evening hours.
Cities including Little Rock, Fort Smith, Fayetteville, Jonesboro, Pine Bluff, and Texarkana are all within the risk zone. Storms may develop first in western Arkansas before spreading east along major corridors like I-40, I-30, and I-49. Wind gusts could exceed 60 mph, strong enough to down tree limbs and cause scattered power outages, while hail may reach severe limits capable of damaging vehicles and roofs.
While the tornado risk remains low, it is not zero. A brief, isolated tornado could develop within stronger cells, particularly during peak heating hours late afternoon into early evening. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items, charge devices, and ensure multiple ways to receive warnings.
Storms are expected to taper off later Friday night, but additional alerts could be issued as timing and storm placement become clearer.
