ARKANSAS — A risk for severe thunderstorms is forecast across parts of Arkansas on Saturday, and the storms could lead to scattered power outages in some areas.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, Arkansas is included in a severe weather outlook for Saturday as a storm system moves across the southern Plains and into the lower Mississippi Valley.
Forecasters say scattered severe thunderstorms could develop from Saturday morning into the evening across portions of the state.
The primary threats from these storms include damaging wind gusts, large hail, heavy rainfall and the possibility of isolated tornadoes.
Damaging winds produced by severe thunderstorms are often the main cause of power outages. Strong gusts can bring down trees and power lines, which can leave thousands of homes and businesses without electricity. Arkansas has experienced similar situations during past severe weather events when powerful storms caused widespread outages across multiple counties.
If storms become more organized or produce stronger wind damage, outages could increase quickly in affected areas.
Utility companies typically prepare for the possibility of outages when severe weather is expected by placing repair crews on standby.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts and weather alerts throughout the day Saturday and be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
