Arkansas is in for a wild weather ride this weekend, with record-breaking warmth on Saturday, followed by a sudden temperature drop and potential storms on Sunday. If you thought winter was over, think again—this weekend’s dramatic shift will be a reminder that Mother Nature isn’t done yet. The National Weather Service is warning residents to prepare for rapid temperature changes, gusty winds, and possible thunderstorms. With highs soaring into the upper 70s on Saturday before plunging into the 30s by Sunday night, Arkansans will need to keep both short sleeves and winter coats handy.
Friday: Cloudy and Cool Before the Warmup
Before the big warmup arrives, Friday will bring a quiet but damp start to the weekend.
- Little Rock: Overcast skies with areas of drizzle. High of 51°F (11°C), low of 49°F (9°C).
- Fayetteville: Cloudy with occasional light rain. High of 51°F (11°C), low of 49°F (10°C).
- Fort Smith: Breezy conditions with peeks of sunshine in the afternoon. High of 51°F (11°C), low of 47°F (8°C).
- Jonesboro: Cool and cloudy with a chance of drizzle. High of 48°F (9°C), low of 44°F (6°C).
It’s a good day to enjoy the cooler weather while it lasts because Saturday will feel more like early summer than February.
Saturday: Springlike Heat Sets the Stage for a Major Change
If you love warm weather, Saturday will be your kind of day—but don’t get too comfortable.
- Little Rock: Breezy and warm, high of 77°F (25°C), just shy of the record of 79°F set in 1994. By nighttime, temperatures plummet to 40°F (5°C).
- Fayetteville: Windy and unseasonably warm, high of 66°F (19°C), low of 32°F (0°C).
- Fort Smith: Sunny and breezy with a high of 72°F (22°C), dropping to 39°F (4°C) overnight.
- Jonesboro: A warm, cloudy day with a high of 66°F (19°C), but rain moves in late. Temperatures fall sharply to 35°F (2°C) at night.
Saturday will feel more like April than February, but this warmth won’t last long.
Sunday: Cold Front Brings Storms and a Dramatic Cool Down
By Sunday morning, a powerful cold front will sweep across the state, bringing cooler temperatures, gusty winds, and the potential for scattered storms.
- Little Rock: A chilly, cloudy day with a couple of showers and a thunderstorm possible. High near 44°F (6°C), low of 37°F (3°C).
- Fayetteville: Cloudy and much cooler, high of 42°F (6°C), low of 33°F (0°C).
- Fort Smith: Cloudy with a stray shower, high near 44°F (6°C), low of 38°F (3°C).
- Jonesboro: Variable clouds with a passing shower, high of 42°F (5°C), low of 35°F (1°C).
After nearly 80-degree warmth just 24 hours earlier, Sunday’s weather will be a complete turnaround. The sudden temperature drop will make it feel even colder, especially with strong winds adding to the chill.
How to Prepare for This Weekend’s Weather Whiplash
With temperatures swinging by more than 30 degrees in just one day, it’s important to stay prepared and plan ahead.
- Dress for the extremes. Saturday’s warmth will feel great, but don’t be caught off guard on Sunday—bring a jacket if you’re heading out.
- Secure outdoor items. Winds will be strong ahead of the cold front, so make sure patio furniture and decorations are secured.
- Drive cautiously. Rain and storms could make roads slick on Sunday. If you must travel, give yourself extra time and stay alert.
- Check for storm alerts. Some areas may see thunderstorms as the front moves through. Stay informed on any weather advisories.
What’s Next? Will This Be the Last Cold Snap?
While next week won’t be as extreme, temperatures will stay on the cooler side, with highs in the 40s and 50s and lows dipping into the 30s and even 20s in some areas.
- Monday: Mostly cloudy, high near 48°F (9°C), low of 32°F (0°C).
- Tuesday: A chance for more showers, high of 52°F (11°C), low of 38°F (3°C).
- Wednesday & Thursday: Cool and dry, with highs in the mid-50s and lows near freezing.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Underestimate This Weather Shift!
This weekend’s forecast is a perfect example of Arkansas’ unpredictable weather. Record-breaking warmth will be replaced by a chilly blast in just 24 hours, and stormy conditions could add to the chaos. Make sure you’re prepared for the ups and downs, and don’t let this weather take you by surprise. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on Saturday or bundling up on Sunday, stay safe and stay ahead of the storm!