Little Rock, AR – Severe thunderstorms swept through central Arkansas late Saturday morning, prompting urgent warnings of high winds and hail in several counties.
The storms are expected to continue to affect the region until at least 12:30 p.m. CDT.
The National Weather Service in Little Rock reported a strong line of thunderstorms moving northeast at 65 mph on radar at 11:52 a.m.
Storms are causing wind gusts of up to 70 mph and quarter-size hail in Prairie, White, Monroe, Jefferson, Lonoke, and Arkansas counties.
Communities such as Des Arc, Humnoke, Judsonia, and McCrory are directly threatened.
These storms can cause roof and siding damage, downed trees, and hazardous travel conditions. A tornado watch remains in effect for much of the state until 7 p.m. Saturday.
Residents should relocate to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and avoid windows. If at all possible, mobile home residents should seek alternative shelter.
This storm system develops during an active severe weather pattern in early April, a time when Arkansas frequently experiences rapidly changing conditions.
Authorities advise following NOAA weather alerts and remaining indoors until warnings expire.
