EF0 tornado strikes north of Little Rock Air Force Base
PULASKI COUNTY, Arkansas – During Thursday afternoon, a brief but confirmed tornado touched down just north of the Little Rock Air Force Base, according to the National Weather Service.
This tornado, classified as EF0 on the Enhanced Fujita Scale, brought with it wind speeds ranging from 65 to 85 mph (105 to 137 km/h). Though the EF0 rating marks the lowest category on the scale, such wind speeds can still result in minor structural damage, downed tree limbs, and localized power disruptions.
Warning issued across central Arkansas counties
A Tornado Warning was in effect from 4:00 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. on Thursday, targeting the following central Arkansas counties: Pulaski, Lonoke, White, and Faulkner. Residents in these areas were urged to take shelter as the severe weather cell moved rapidly eastward.
Though this particular tornado was relatively weak and short-lived, the Arkansas Storm Team cautions that additional rounds of heavy rainfall could affect the region throughout the weekend.
Continuing severe weather risk for the weekend
The broader severe weather system responsible for the tornado is expected to persist. Meteorologists are monitoring the potential for torrential downpours, gusty winds, and isolated flash flooding, particularly in low-lying areas across central and eastern Arkansas.
For ongoing weather updates and alerts, Arkansans are encouraged to follow the Arkansas Storm Team and use the AST mobile app to remain informed.
