A warm windy Thursday expected, with rain and storm returning this weekend.

Arkansas is preparing for a windy and warm Thursday, with afternoon highs expected to reach the 80s, driven by southerly winds gusting up to 40 MPH. While there is a low chance of isolated showers in the northwest Thursday morning, the primary concern will arise Friday evening as thunderstorms begin to develop. These storms are expected to become increasingly severe overnight, prompting a level 2 out of 5 risk for severe weather that could extend into Saturday and Easter Sunday. Residents should be particularly cautious of flash flooding, with rainfall totals projected between 2 to 4 inches in many areas, especially from Saturday into Sunday. The National Weather Service advises keeping an eye on local forecasts for updates.

As the weekend approaches, the potential for severe storms adds an element of urgency for those planning outdoor activities. With the warm temperatures and gusty winds, it’s essential to stay alert to rapidly changing weather conditions. This forecast underscores the importance of preparedness as Arkansas heads into a potentially tumultuous weekend.