Tropical Storm Isaac is still a tropical storm as of 1 PM, but just barely. Maximum winds are down to 40 MPH, and the storm will be downgraded to a depression later today as maximum winds drop below 39 MPH
The current center of Isaac is located in Northern Louisiana, moving toward the North-Northwest at a slightly faster forward speed of 9 MPH. Tremendous tropical rains are falling over much of Mississippi and Southeast Louisiana this morning, and overnight there have been numerous tornado warnings in the Magnolia State. Numerous flash flood warnings are also up for the Southeast. There are several reports of I-10 shut down until further notice and a total of 45 road closes are found in Lamar County, Mississippi alone. It should be noted that most of the heavy rain is now located well East of the center of Isaac.
As for Arkansas, we have a couple rain bands already swirling through central and southern sections of the state. Once we're into the evening hours we'll see that rain increase in coverage and bring gusty winds along with it. Sustained winds are estimated to be anywhere between 10 to 20 mph with gusts approaching 35 mph. Besides the increasing rain coverage from Isaac, we'll have to be on alert for brief tornadoes. The best tornado threat remains in Mississippi this afternoon but it could shift to Southeast/Eastern Arkansas later overnight.
Occasional rain and breezy conditions will persist through Thursday night and into Friday morning as the remnants of Isaac move northward through Western Arkansas. Heavy showers and breezy conditions will continue into Friday, beginning to diminish by the late evening hours as Isaac heads for Missouri. When the storm system is finally done with the Natural State we could see rainfall totals on the range of 1-5" with local amounts reaching as high as 6". There is some question though about rainfall amounts for Central Arkansas. It is quite possible some spots may receive less than forecast. Here's why: Isaac Rainfall in Question
