Severe Storms and Widespread Flooding Threaten Region 8

K8 Storm Team is tracking a severe weather threat that could affect Northeast Arkansas and Southeast Missouri. The threat of that happening on Thursday, though, is forecast to be much less damaging than what Region 8 saw Wednesday, as meteorologists warn of a medium-level threat for residents in parts of Region 8’s southern counties. Schools, houses and businesses have already reported damage from previous storms and the incoming weather pattern has them concerned about more severe conditions.

The storm — which hit in the night — caused damage and toppling trees across many school districts in Northeast Arkansas, which canceled classes on Thursday. Residents have been warned to stay aware of weather warnings and prepare for potential emergency services. In addition to the threat of severe storms, the region is also in danger of widespread flooding from several inches of rainfall over the coming days.

The rain, once it begins to fall on Wednesday, is likely to continue through Sunday, said Kristina Balentine, a meteorologist with the weather service. They expect between 6 to 12 inches of rain to fall across Region 8, which could cause flooding. Such a significant amount of rain falling in such a short stint of time raises the risk of high water for rivers and low-lying spaces.

According to the National Weather Service offices in Little Rock and Memphis, River Flood Warnings and a ‘Particularly Dangerous Situation’ Flood Watch have been issued due to the expected torrential rain. These warnings mean the areas near rivers, streams, and other bodies of water may see fast and possibly life-threatening flooding. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has also offered guidance on river levels, predicting a “big jump” in water levels from the expected downpours.

Officials and meteorologists are calling for vigilance and caution among residents. For those in flood-prone areas, evacuation plans should be made, valuables secured and official weather updates monitored. The threat for flooding is especially great because soils across the region are already saturated from earlier rainstorms, making it almost impossible for more water to seep in. Sudden, heavy rain increases the risk of flash flooding, road closures and possibly infrastructure damage.

For the latest weather updates and information to keep safe this winter, K8 Storm Team is with you on air and online. You can see the forecasts on K8 from 4:30 a.m. to 7 a.m. and during the Midday News at 11 a.m. and the evening shows at 5, 6 and 10 p.m. on K8-ABC and K8-NBC.

Residents can also stay up to date with the K8 News mobile app, found of Google Play or the Apple App Store for smartphones and tablets. The app features live updates, weather alerts and important safety instructions. K8 News is also available on streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Firestick and Apple TV so you can get weather in the most timely manner.

The K8 Storm Team urges all of those in the impacted areas to stay alert and prepare accordingly. Continued updates on storm developments and conditions around floods will be made available via the K8 News website, K8 News mobile app, and K8 News YouTube channel. With potentially dangerous weather, keeping watch and prepared can have an impact in keeping Hardin County people and communities safe in Northeast Arkansas and Southeast Missouri.