Originally, it was looking like some warm air was going to mix into the storm system affecting the state, allowing some rain to mix in during the day, cutting down on snow totals. However, the cold air has took a stronghold. Moisture streamed in from NE Texas, and when that hit the cold air it turned into snow.
As the system strengthened we saw snowfall rates of 2-3" an hour. Some sleet could was mixed in, but at this point, mainly snow is forecast.
The snow will begin to taper off tonight, and should end between midnight and 3am. Driving is already treacherous, with so much slush and snow on the ground. And as temperatures fall into the lower 20s tonight, all of that slush will freeze, and will create havoc for the morning drive tomorrow.
Forecast snowfall totals are as follows:
- Central Arkansas, including Little Rock, Cabot, Conway, and Jacksonville...10-15"
- Central Arkansas, including Hot Springs...5-10"
- Northern Arkansas, including Batesville, Marshall, and Russellville...5-10"
- Southern Arkansas, including Pine Bluff and Sheridan...3-5", mainly later today into tonight.
The 24-hour snowfall record for Little Rock was set back in 1893 with 13", and for North Little Rock, back in 1988 with 12". It is possible that these records could be broken.
Stay logged on to FOX16.com for the latest information.
Salvation Army warming center open
Due to the snow accumulation, The Salvation Army Area Command in Little Rock opened at 10 AM. However, the Warming Center at the Shelter has been open all day. The Center provides a safe refuge to the poor and homeless who need to escape the cold.
Deaths linked to extreme cold account for 0.8 percent of the nation's annual death rate.
