Flood and Storm Threat

A very slow moving storm system will bring heavy rains and some storms to Arkansas over the next few days. A cold front will slowly push into Western Arkansas Tuesday with a band of heavy rain and thunderstorms. The front will be a very slow mover as an upper level low pressure system cuts off from the main flow over West Texas.

A few strong storms are possible along the leading edge and just out ahead of the main band of rain. The Storm Prediction Center indicates a SLIGHT risk for severe weather through Tuesday night for Western and parts of Central Arkansas. Gusty winds and possible hail with the storm are the main threats, although a brief tornado cannot be ruled out. This is the Storm Prediction Center risk area through Tuesday Night.

Due to the very slow movement of the band of rain, rainfall amounts are likely to very heavy with flash flooding in some spots. Some roads may become water covered and creeks and streams may overflow their banks. The main band of heavy rain will approach Central Arkansas by late Tuesday evening

The band of rain will likely stall across Central Arkansas late Tuesday night into Wednesday morning with additional rainfall likely through Wednesday night. Rain will begin to push East and out of Arkansas by Thursday Morning.

Rainfall amounts through Thursday morning will be quite heavy in spots, especially for the Western half of the State. Rain amounts will fall off for Eastern Arkansas where flooding will be less of a threat. These are the forecast rain totals through Thursday

Widespread rain amounts over 4 inches are likely West of Little Rock, with over 8 inches in some spots mainly West of the Arkansas border. These rainfall amounts may produce serious flash flooding in some spots. It is important to pay attention to any warnings issued over the next couple of days. Most importantly, do not drive across flooded roads. This is how most flood related fatalities occur.  Remember...TURN AROUND...DON'T DROWN!