Bitter cold forecast updated; Snow chances remain

The latest forecast from the National Weather Service in Little Rock shows the cold front moving through earlier than previously expected. An Arctic cold front will move across the state on Thursday, ushering in bitterly cold air.

*Some* snow will accompany the front, with light accumulations possible across the north. There could be a dusting of snow across central portions of the state as well.

The bigger story will be the Arctic air that will move in and settle over the region through the end of the week, with temperatures well below normal. Breezy northwest winds will create wind chill index values below zero across much of the region Thursday through Friday morning.

Temperatures will fall below zero across the north Friday morning with single digits and teens elsewhere. Readings will likely stay below freezing statewide during the day Friday. The winds will slacken on Friday as the system pulls away but the cold will remain, with only some moderation in temperatures through Christmas.

Begin preparing now for very cold temperatures. Remember the Four P’s… People, Pets, Plants, and Pipes. Check on your neighbors and family and friends to make sure they have a plan. Bring pets inside. Cover plants or bring them inside. Cover your outdoor faucets and let faucets drip inside to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting.

EXTENDED DAILY FORECAST: