BATESVILLE, Ark. — A line of severe thunderstorms is expected to push east across Arkansas this afternoon and evening, bringing the continued risk of spin-up tornadoes, damaging wind gusts and heavy rainfall, forecasters said.
The threat is associated with a fast-moving QLCS (quasi-linear convective system) advancing out of eastern Oklahoma into southern Missouri and much of Arkansas. While the strongest upper-level dynamics are lifting toward the Great Lakes region, meteorologists say a strong southwesterly low-level jet is expected to persist ahead of the squall line through the afternoon, creating conditions favorable for brief, rapidly forming tornadoes.
Spin-up tornadoes can develop quickly along the leading edge of a storm line and may occur with little warning. In addition to the tornado risk, damaging straight-line winds and pockets of heavy rain are possible as storms move through the region.
Residents across north and central Arkansas are urged to remain weather-aware throughout the day and evening, ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather alerts, and be prepared to seek shelter if warnings are issued.
The severe weather threat is expected to continue into the evening hours as the storm line progresses eastward. Emergency officials emphasize that conditions can change rapidly and encourage the public to closely monitor watches and warnings as storms approach.
