Little Rock, AR – Arkansas starts the week crisp and chilly after the passage of a recent cold front, but the state will experience a steady warmup through midweek before a much stronger surge of cold air arrives this weekend, according to the National Weather Service in Little Rock.
The week begins with highs reaching the upper 40s across central and western Arkansas. Communities in the Delta, including Jonesboro, are seeing slightly cooler readings in the lower 40s. Clear skies and dry conditions dominate the region, while overnight temperatures dip into the 20s and low 30s, reinforcing the early-December chill.
Warming Trend Takes Hold Through Midweek
A gradual but noticeable warming pattern moves in starting Tuesday. Forecasters expect afternoon highs to reach the upper 40s to low 50s, with further warming into the mid-50s across many locations by Wednesday and Thursday.
The National Weather Service says skies will stay quiet and precipitation-free as Arkansas enjoys several days of stable weather.
“We’re looking at a dry and fairly mild stretch through midweek,” the NWS said in its latest update.
Light winds are expected to continue, allowing temperatures to moderate without any significant weather disruptions.
Strong Cold Front Arrives Late Week
By late Thursday into Friday, forecast models indicate a sharp pattern shift as a strong cold front presses southward across the state. This system will usher in a much colder air mass, reversing the midweek warmup and pulling temperatures back into a winterlike range.
High temperatures heading into the weekend will tumble noticeably, and overnight lows may fall into the 20s statewide. Northern counties could see readings dip even further, potentially into the teens.
Although the front will be powerful in temperature impact, forecasters note that significant rainfall is not expected.
What Arkansans Should Expect Heading Into the Weekend
Residents should prepare for a quick transition from mild afternoons to brisk, freezing mornings as the colder air settles in. The temperature swing will be one of the most dramatic of the month, particularly for communities that reach the mid-50s on Thursday before dropping near or below freezing by Saturday morning.
Meteorologists advise monitoring local forecasts, especially for those with early travel plans or outdoor activities heading into Friday and the weekend.
Preparing for Rapid Weather Changes
Rapid temperature drops can affect travel, heating needs, and morning routines. Homeowners should ensure heating systems are functioning properly and take precautions to protect pipes and outdoor pets as the colder air arrives. Even without snow or rainfall, strong fronts can create challenging conditions simply from the temperature extremes.
Conclusion
Arkansas will enjoy a brief midweek warmup before winterlike temperatures return by the weekend. While no major precipitation issues are expected, the dramatic shift in temperatures will be felt across the state as another strong cold front makes its way south.
If you’re in Arkansas, how are you preparing for the sharp drop in temperatures later this week? Share your thoughts in the comments.
