Forecasters are currently monitoring a system for the potential for winter precipitation this weekend across Arkansas. An upper level system will move from the southwestern U.S. towards the state early in the weekend. In response, southerly flow will develop above the cold air mass in place across the state. Light precipitation is expected to develop late Saturday night across southwest sections of the state, then spreading northeastward during the morning Sunday. Precipitation is expected to be light initially, and then increase in intensity on Sunday. Precipitation is expected to be in the form of freezing rain or sleet when first starting. As the southerly low level flow increases, warmer air will move into the state, with precipitation turning to rain, gradually from south to north on Sunday. NWS forecasters will be closely examining the period of changeover from freezing rain and sleet to rain, as the duration of which will determine any impacts on travel. If any winter weather advisories or watches are issued, they can be viewed immediately at the map at the top of this web page: srh.noaa.gov/lzk/. Detailed forecasts for Arkansas from the National Weather Service can also be found at that link. We will send another message Friday, as forecast details become clearer. Chris Buonanno Science and Operations Officer National Weather Service Little Rock
Posted on: Thu, 08 Jan 2015 18:54:21 +0000