NewsNation

First ever tropical storm warning issued for state of Arkansas

The National Hurricane Center reports that Tropical Depression Thirteen has strengthened into Tropical Storm Laura on August 21, 2020. (National Hurricane Center)

LITTLE ROCK (NewsNation) —  Laura made landfall as a Category 4 hurricane, but now it threatens Arkansas as a tropical storm.

For the first time in Arkansas’ history, a tropical storm warning was issued for the state, the National Weather Service confirmed to NewsNation.


According to NewsNation affiliate KARK, tropical storm-force wind will be likely in South Arkansas by noon Thursday and in Central Arkansas by the evening and through the night.

Wind speeds in Central Arkansas are predicted to be as high as 40 mph with some gusts of 45-50 mph.

Southern Arkansas can expect 3-6″ of rain with pockets of places possibly receiving 7-8″ of rain.

A tornado watch has been issued for Southeast and East Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi until 4 p.m. Thursday. A flash flood warning is also in effect in Arkansas until 7 p.m. Friday,