Memphis, TN – Residents across eastern Arkansas, western Tennessee, and northern Mississippi should prepare for severe weather Tuesday afternoon into the evening, with the greatest threat window between 2 p.m. and 11 p.m., according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Memphis.
According to NWS forecasters, a Slight Risk (Level 2 of 5) of severe storms exists west of the Mississippi River, including areas near Little Rock, Batesville, and Jonesboro. Meanwhile, a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5) extends across Memphis, Jackson, and into Nashville.
Primary hazards include damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph, which could down trees and power lines, leading to scattered outages. Hail up to quarter size is also possible. Forecasters caution that an isolated tornado cannot be ruled out in stronger storm cells.
The NWS also issued a Damaging Wind Threat Outlook, highlighting a 15% chance of severe wind gusts in parts of Arkansas and a 5% chance across Tennessee and northern Mississippi.
Officials advise residents to secure loose outdoor items, avoid windows during storms, and have a shelter plan ready in case warnings are issued. Evening commuters should allow extra time and stay alert for rapidly changing conditions.
Additional rounds of storms are expected to continue into Wednesday, though the risk is lower.
