Special Weather Statement for Southeast Arkansas
Residents across Cleveland, Drew, Jefferson, and Lincoln Counties in southeast Arkansas should remain alert as a Special Weather Statement has been issued for developing thunderstorms capable of producing wind gusts up to 50 MPH and hail up to 0.50 inches in diameter. While these storms are currently expected to remain below severe thunderstorm warning criteria, they are still capable of creating hazardous conditions for anyone outdoors or traveling.
Strong thunderstorms can intensify quickly, especially during the warm summer months when heat and humidity provide the energy needed for storms to strengthen. Even storms that are not officially classified as severe can produce damaging wind gusts, dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning, brief heavy rainfall, and small hail that may catch residents off guard.
Radar Watch HQ is closely monitoring conditions across southeast Arkansas and will continue providing updates if these storms strengthen or additional weather alerts are issued.
Storms Expected to Produce Gusty Winds and Small Hail
Meteorologists are tracking thunderstorms moving across portions of southeast Arkansas capable of producing:
- Wind gusts up to 50 MPH
- Hail up to 0.50 inches in diameter
- Frequent cloud-to-ground lightning
- Brief periods of heavy rainfall
- Reduced visibility for motorists
- Localized ponding of water on roadways
Wind gusts approaching 50 MPH can break small tree limbs, blow around unsecured outdoor furniture, trash cans, lawn decorations, and create hazardous travel conditions for high-profile vehicles. While hail measuring one-half inch is generally not expected to cause widespread damage, it can still dent sensitive plants, damage gardens, and surprise drivers caught in heavier storm cores.
Counties Included in the Special Weather Statement
The statement includes portions of the following Arkansas counties:
- Cleveland County
- Drew County
- Jefferson County
- Lincoln County
Residents throughout these counties should continue monitoring weather conditions as thunderstorms move through the region. Individual communities may experience varying impacts depending on the exact path and intensity of each storm.
Lightning Remains One of the Greatest Dangers
Although wind and hail often receive the most attention, lightning remains one of the deadliest hazards associated with thunderstorms.
Every thunderstorm produces lightning, and strikes can occur several miles away from the heaviest rain. If you hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning. The safest place during any thunderstorm is inside a sturdy building or hard-topped vehicle until at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder.
Outdoor activities, sporting events, construction work, and boating should be postponed immediately if thunderstorms approach.
Heavy Rain May Create Localized Travel Issues
Along with gusty winds and hail, thunderstorms may produce brief periods of heavy rainfall capable of reducing visibility and creating ponding on streets and low-lying roadways.
Motorists should slow down during heavy rain and allow extra distance between vehicles. Never drive through water covering a roadway, as even shallow flooding can become dangerous.
Localized flooding is not expected to become widespread, but isolated areas with poor drainage could experience temporary water accumulation during heavier downpours.
Stay Prepared Throughout the Evening
Weather conditions can change rapidly, and thunderstorms occasionally strengthen faster than expected. Residents across southeast Arkansas should remain weather aware throughout the evening by:
- Securing loose outdoor furniture and decorations
- Moving vehicles under shelter if available
- Charging mobile devices in case of isolated power outages
- Monitoring local weather updates and emergency alerts
- Having multiple ways to receive weather warnings
If thunderstorms continue to intensify, additional weather statements or warnings could be issued with little notice.
Radar Watch HQ Will Continue Monitoring Arkansas Weather
Radar Watch HQ will continue tracking thunderstorm development across Cleveland, Drew, Jefferson, and Lincoln Counties throughout the day and evening. If stronger storms develop capable of producing damaging winds or larger hail, updated weather alerts will be posted as they become available.
Stay connected with Radar Watch HQ for breaking weather updates, severe storm coverage, radar analysis, and emergency preparedness information to help keep your family safe during active weather.
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Radar Watch HQ Top 5 Essential Emergency Preparedness Picks
Whether you’re preparing for severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, hurricanes, wildfires, or extended power outages, these five emergency essentials can help keep your household safer when severe weather strikes.
A portable power station provides reliable backup electricity during outages, allowing you to power phones, medical devices, laptops, lights, small appliances, and communication equipment without fuel.
Best for:
- Extended power outages
- Severe thunderstorms
- Hurricanes
- Winter storms
- Wildfires
2. Flood Protection Barriers & Sandless Flood Bags
Flood barriers help divert or absorb water before it enters garages, doorways, and low-lying areas. They deploy quickly and can help reduce property damage during flash flooding.
Best for:
- Flash Flood Warnings
- Heavy rainfall
- River flooding
- Coastal flooding
3. Rechargeable LED Flashlights
Bright, dependable flashlights are essential when the power goes out. Rechargeable or solar-powered models provide long-lasting illumination for navigating safely indoors and outdoors.
Best for:
- Overnight power outages
- Emergency evacuations
- Storm damage inspections
Keep phones, tablets, weather radios, and USB-powered devices charged when the electrical grid is unavailable. A solar power bank offers an additional charging option during prolonged emergencies.
Best for:
- Communication during outages
- Emergency weather alerts
- Travel and evacuation
A NOAA Weather Radio delivers official weather alerts directly from the National Weather Service, even when cellular networks or internet service are unavailable. It remains one of the most dependable ways to receive life-saving warnings.
Best for:
- Tornado warnings
- Severe thunderstorm warnings
- Flash flood warnings
- Hurricane alerts
- Winter storm emergencies
Why Radar Watch HQ Recommends These Essentials
At Radar Watch HQ, preparedness is just as important as staying informed. These five emergency essentials can help you stay connected, protect your property, and safely navigate severe weather events. Having supplies ready before storms arrive allows you to respond quickly when warnings are issued and conditions begin to deteriorate.
