Showers and thunderstorms are expected to move across Arkansas Thursday, Thursday night, and into the morning hours on Friday. A few storms could become strong to severe, with damaging winds and large hail the main hazards. The potential for severe weather should remain isolated to the southwestern half of the state Thursday night.

The heaviest rainfall with this system is expected over southern Arkansas where up to 2 inches of rain is likely. Elsewhere, totals will range from a half inch to around an inch to inch and a half. Localized flooding is possible through tonight.

Freeze watch Friday night

The National Weather Service in Little Rock has placed most of the state, including Southwest Arkansas, under a Freeze Watch from late Friday through Saturday morning. Frost and freeze conditions could kill crops, other sensitive vegetation and possibly damage unprotected outdoor plumbing.

Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. To prevent freezing and possible bursting of outdoor water pipes, they should be wrapped, drained or allowed to drip slowly. Those who have in-ground sprinkler systems should drain them and cover above-ground pipes to protect them from freezing.