Little Rock, AR – A strong cold front moving across Arkansas this weekend is expected to bring heavy rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds, creating hazardous conditions for thousands of post-Thanksgiving travelers on Saturday. Meteorologists warn that the storm system could cause delays on major highways as visibility drops and roads become slick during periods of intense rainfall.
Saturday Storm System Expected to Bring Widespread Rain
Weather officials report that showers will begin increasing across central Arkansas late Friday night as the leading edge of a cold front approaches. By early Saturday morning, the region will see widespread rain and thunderstorms, with the National Weather Service forecasting a 90–100% chance of rainfall throughout the day.
According to the latest National Weather Service discussion, most locations may receive around 1 inch of rain, while parts of the Arkansas River Valley could see isolated totals up to 2 inches. Gusts near 20 mph are also expected as the system pushes from west to east.
Travel Concerns for I-30, I-40, and Highway 67
The timing of the storm raises concerns for drivers heading home from Thanksgiving gatherings. Wet pavement, fast-forming puddles, and sudden drops in visibility will be key hazards, especially along I-30, I-40, and Highway 67, where traffic is typically heavy during holiday weekends.
Forecasters caution that stronger cells within the line of storms could briefly intensify, making highway travel more difficult.
“Drivers should plan for slower travel and potential delays, especially during the late morning and early afternoon when rainfall rates peak,”
meteorologists noted in a statement.
The combination of rain-soaked roads and gusty winds across open stretches may further reduce travel speeds and increase the risk of hydroplaning.
Cooler Air Follows the Front
Once the rain clears Saturday evening, a much cooler air mass will settle over Arkansas. Temperatures will slide into the low 40s on Sunday with brisk north winds adding a noticeable chill. By early Monday morning, lows will plunge into the mid-20s, signaling a sharp transition toward winterlike conditions.
NOAA’s long-range models indicate that below-normal temperatures will dominate the central U.S. through December 6, suggesting that Arkansas could face additional cold fronts and early-season frost potential next week.
This pattern marks what meteorologists describe as a brief “Winter Tease”, highlighting the likelihood of frost or freeze advisories as December approaches.
What Weather Experts Are Advising
Officials are urging residents to stay weather-aware through the weekend. Carrying umbrellas, wearing layers, and preparing vehicles for colder temperatures will be important for anyone traveling across the state.
“Even after the rain moves out, cold mornings and breezy afternoons will make conditions feel more like early winter,”
forecasters said.
Those planning early Sunday departures should be cautious of frost on windshields and potentially slick bridges as temperatures dip near freezing.
Five-Day Weather Snapshot for Little Rock
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 51°F
- Saturday: Heavy rain and storms likely, high 50°F
- Sunday: Partly cloudy, high 43°F
- Monday: Cold start, high 36°F
- Tuesday: Sunny, high 42°F
This extended outlook underscores the rapid shift from rainy, stormy conditions to crisp, colder air behind the passing front.
Additional Safety Tips for Weekend Travel
Given the expected rainfall and wind, drivers are encouraged to take precautionary steps throughout the holiday weekend:
- Reduce speed during heavier rain bands
- Maintain extra distance between vehicles
- Avoid driving through standing water
- Check tire pressure before long drives
- Keep an emergency kit in the vehicle
These measures can help reduce the risks associated with wet roads and changing temperatures.
Conclusion
As Arkansas prepares for a stormy Saturday followed by a chilly Sunday and Monday, residents and travelers should stay alert to changing conditions and plan their routes carefully. The combination of heavy rain, strong thunderstorms, and sharp temperature drops will shape the final days of post-Thanksgiving travel.
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