Little Rock, Arkansas – Temperatures will surge into the lower 90s by Thursday afternoon, delivering a summerlike stretch of heat that will quickly dry out conditions across Arkansas heading into the weekend.
According to the National Weather Service and NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, Arkansas is in an 80 to 90 percent probability zone for above-normal temperatures from April 16 through April 20. A strong heat dome over the lower Mississippi Valley will suppress rainfall and allow temperatures to climb well above seasonal averages.
In Little Rock and across Pulaski, Saline, and Faulkner counties, highs are expected to reach 89 to 92°F between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., with overnight lows holding in the upper 60s. Along the I-30 and I-40 corridors, dry air and prolonged sunshine will accelerate vegetation drying, increasing wildfire risk in grassy and wooded areas.
Fort Smith and western Arkansas will see highs in the upper 80s to near 91°F, while Jonesboro and northeast Arkansas will climb into the upper 80s. In southern areas including El Dorado and Pine Bluff, temperatures could reach the low 90s with very limited cloud cover.
The precipitation outlook shows near-normal to slightly below-normal rainfall across much of the state early in this period. However, a more active pattern begins to develop between April 18 and April 22, bringing an increasing chance of heavier rainfall, especially along and south of I-40.
Residents should avoid outdoor burning, stay hydrated, and limit strenuous activity during peak afternoon heat. Drivers should monitor vehicle temperatures and avoid parking on dry grass to reduce fire risk.
The most intense heat is expected April 18 through April 20, when a “much above normal” zone expands across Arkansas and the Mid-South. Additional advisories are likely as conditions begin to shift toward a stormier pattern early next week.
