Another strong storm system will likely bring severe storms Friday. These will most likely start during the late morning hours across western and southwest Arkansas. As these storms track east, they will intensify. This will take place during the afternoon through the evening hours for central and east Arkansas. By late Friday night, storms and rain should be out of Arkansas.

The most intense storms could move through during the rush hour commute driving home from work and school. Be sure phones are charged and you have multiple ways to receive weather alerts. Power outages and tree damage are possible with storms Friday.

The latest risk map released by the Storm Prediction Center.

Friday’s risk appears a bit more intense as tornadoes and damaging wind are the main threats. Large hail, perhaps golf ball size, will be possible as well. These impacts could be a bit more amplified in the level 4 risk zone where tornadoes could be stronger and perhaps long-lived. Some cities in the level 4 (moderate) risk zone include: Jonesboro, Forrest City, Paragould, Wynne, Clarendon, Searcy & Augusta.

Tornadoes and damaging wind will be the main risks Friday afternoon/evening.

In addition to storms, Friday will be windy. Southwesterly wind will be sustained at 20-30mph with gusts up to 45mph. Wind within thunderstorms could be as strong as 60-80mph. A Wind Advisory goes in effect for all of Friday from 7am until 1am early Saturday morning.

Now is the time to plan ahead. What are your plans Friday? Based on those plans, identify where you’ll go if a tornado warning is issued. Stay ready so you do not have to get ready if a tornado warning is issued.

Remember: A tornado WATCH means you should be watching for a warning. When the WARNING is issued, take action!

Below is a slideshow that illustrates how these storms will unfold hour-by-hour during the day Friday. As you can see, the strongest storms will occur between noon and perhaps 9 p.m. Peak intensity should occur between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

One thing to note about these images: At times, there may only be a few storms on radar while many see sunshine. But these individual storms, known as supercells, are notorious for producing stronger tornadoes, as well as large hail. Please treat all warnings seriously on Friday.