Severe storms possible Sunday & Monday in Northwest Arkansas, River Valley

Scattered, severe storms expected to hit Arkansas Sunday and Monday

Meteorologists are monitoring the development of storms set to impact Northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas River Valley Sunday and Monday. The storms have the potential to produce damaging winds, hail and possible tornadoes.

Storms expected to develop Sunday afternoon and evening

The storms are expected to develop Sunday afternoon southwest of the state along the Interstate 40 corridor. They are forecast to move northeast with a primary threat between 4 p.m. and 10 p.m., according to the National Weather Service office in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

Large hail, damaging winds possible with storms

The weather service has placed the entire region under a slight risk for severe storms Sunday. Storms in the area could contain hail up to the size of golf balls and winds in excess of 60 mph.

Forecasters say the main threats with Sunday storms will be wind and large hail. The storms have a 25% chance of producing tornadoes, according to the weather service.

Heavy rain, flooding also possible

The impact from the storms won’t be limited to wind and hail. Heavy rainfall could be a problem. The weather service has issued a hazardous weather outlook for all of northwest Arkansas and the Arkansas River Valley.

Rain totals could approach 2 inches in some areas. If storms develop slowly, rainfall totals could be higher, leading to possible flooding.

Damaging winds, flooding, power outages likely with Monday storms

The storms are expected continue into Monday, though the greatest threat for severe weather will be Monday night. There is a moderate risk for severe storms in much of western Arkansas, including the Interstate 30 corridor from Fort Smith to Little Rock on Monday.

Damaging winds and flooding remain the primary threats with Monday’s storms. Power outages could also be a problem.

Monitor local weather sources for more information

Residents in the potential path of the storms are urged to monitor weather conditions. Know the difference between a watch and a warning. A watch means the conditions are favorable for severe weather, while a warning means severe weather has been reported.

Be prepared to take shelter if a warning is issued in your area. Have a plan in place in case of power outages.