Little Rock, AR – A round of heavy rainfall and potentially severe thunderstorms is expected across Arkansas on Monday, with the strongest storms likely to impact southern parts of the state from Monday afternoon through Monday night. The National Weather Service in Little Rock warns that a few storms may become strong to severe, capable of producing damaging winds, large hail, and torrential downpours.
According to the National Weather Service, hail up to quarter size will be possible, with the most intense storms capable of producing even larger stones in isolated areas. Wind gusts of 60 mph or higher may accompany the strongest storms, creating the potential for downed branches and localized power outages. Tornado potential remains low but not zero, and forecasters note that a brief spin-up cannot be entirely ruled out.
The Storm Prediction Center places parts of southern Arkansas in a Level 2 of 5 – Slight Risk for severe thunderstorms. Areas highlighted include El Dorado, Camden, Magnolia, Monticello, and portions of the I-30 and U.S. 82 corridors.
Rainfall totals may be locally heavy, especially where storms repeatedly track over the same areas. This could lead to ponding on roads and travel slowdowns during the afternoon and evening hours.
Storms are expected to develop Monday afternoon and continue into the night, gradually weakening as they push east. Residents in southern Arkansas are encouraged to monitor forecast updates and be prepared to take action if warnings are issued.
