Arkansas Weekly Weather Outlook - October 27 2024

This week, Arkansas will see a mix of unseasonably warm conditions followed by a welcome cooldown and potential rain showers as a cold front approaches later in the week.

Early Week (Monday - Tuesday)

• Temperatures: Warm start with highs reaching the low 80s to near 90°F. Overnight lows will be mild, from the mid-50s to mid-60s.
• Conditions: Mostly sunny and dry due to high-pressure overhead. Breezy southerly winds will reinforce the unseasonably warm October temperatures, especially in central and northern areas.
• Fire Risk: Fire danger remains high through early week due to dry, windy conditions and ongoing drought. Many areas are under burn bans; avoid outdoor burning to reduce wildfire risks.

Midweek Warm-Up (Wednesday)

• Temperatures: Highs in the mid-80s, about 10-15°F above average.
• Conditions: Sunny and dry, with southerly winds continuing. However, rain will start to move in on Wednesday evening as the cold front approaches, bringing widespread showers into Thursday.

Late Week (Thursday - Friday)

• Temperatures: Cooler air moves in, especially in northern Arkansas, where highs may dip into the 70s. Southern areas may still reach the low 80s.
• Rain and Thunderstorms: Widespread rain is expected from Wednesday evening, intensifying Thursday afternoon and evening. Forecasted rainfall totals range from 1-2 inches, with thunderstorms likely, especially Thursday evening—potentially affecting Halloween plans.
• Impacts: The rain will be beneficial given recent dry conditions, especially for central and northern Arkansas.

Weekend Outlook (Saturday - Sunday)

• Temperatures: Cooler, seasonable temperatures will return, with highs from the mid-60s in northern Arkansas to the low 70s in the south. Overnight lows could reach the mid-40s in northern areas.
• Conditions: After the front passes, expect dry and cool fall weather to linger into early next week.

Key Takeaways

• Warm Start: The week will begin with unseasonably warm temperatures.
• Midweek Rain: A significant cold front will bring cooler temperatures and rain starting Wednesday evening, lasting into Thursday.
• Cooler Weekend: Fall-like conditions return with cooler, dry air for the weekend.
• Increased Fire Risk: The current dry and windy conditions have raised fire risks, especially in central and western Arkansas where burn bans are active. Take precautions, especially with any outdoor activities.

Halloween Prep Tips

Prepare for Rain: Halloween on Thursday may see rain and thunderstorms, so plan for raincoats, umbrellas, and waterproof costume layers for outdoor activities.

Alternative Plans: Consider indoor activities or local events if rain is heavy.

Halloween week will shift from warmth to classic fall weather, setting the stage for a cool start to November. Stay tuned to local forecasts, as timing may shift slightly.

John Cook
Journalist - Arkansas Weather Watchers