Thunderstorms in forecast through holiday weekend

A National Weather Service graphic forecasts the rainfall totals through 7 a.m. on Sunday, July 5, 2015.
A National Weather Service graphic forecasts the rainfall totals through 7 a.m. on Sunday, July 5, 2015.

Rounds of thunderstorms across Arkansas from Thursday through the Fourth of July holiday weekend will increase the risk of flash flooding, forecasters say.

A "nearly" stationary front will move into northern Arkansas and stay for most of the weekend, National Weather Service Science and Operations Officer Chris Buonanno said. Several "disturbances" from this front will "promote the development of showers and thunderstorms," he said.

On Thursday, the largest threat for severe thunderstorms is mostly in the northern part of the state, Buonanno said. Northern Arkansas falls into the "slight risk" category for storms, meaning "short-lived and/or no widespread" isolated thunderstorms are possible. The central part of the state falls into the "marginal" category, where isolated thunderstorms could be possible.

Buonanno said he recommends anyone planning outdoor activities for the holiday weekend watch weather reports and "have a plan to take action if hazardous weather approaches."

photo

National Weather Service of North Little Rock

This National Weather Service graphic shows the predicted severe weather outlook for Thursday, July 2, 2015.

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