Arkansas has seen its share of fierce storms over the years, from powerful tornadoes to devastating thunderstorms. These natural events have shaped the state’s history and tested its communities’ resilience.
What makes these storms significant is the sheer impact they have left on the region, both in terms of destruction and recovery efforts.
This article will walk you through the 10 biggest storms to ever hit Arkansas, providing insight into their power and the enduring spirit of those affected.
1. Great Mississippi Flood of 1927
The Great Mississippi Flood of 1927 was one of the most destructive floods in U.S. history.
Nearly 27,000 square miles were inundated, affecting parts of Arkansas, among other states. This flood had profound social and economic impacts.
In Arkansas, the floodwaters displaced thousands of residents, destroying homes and farmland. The Mississippi River swelled to unprecedented levels, submerging vast areas.
The devastation was immense, leading to significant loss of property and life.
Many towns and rural areas faced severe damage. The floodwaters also brought significant challenges to infrastructure, making recovery efforts difficult. The flood spurred changes in flood management policies and the construction of levees and other control measures.
2. Little Rock Tornado Outbreak of 1999
The Little Rock Tornado Outbreak of 1999 was one of the most significant weather events in Arkansas history. The outbreak occurred between January 21-22 and produced 56 tornadoes within the state.
Many of these tornadoes tracked through heavily populated areas. The storm caused severe damage across the region, particularly along the I-30 and US 67/167 highway corridors.
This outbreak resulted in eight fatalities and numerous injuries. It surpassed the previous state record for tornadoes in a single outbreak, which was 34 on June 5, 1916.
This event is remembered for its high impact and widespread devastation. It remains a notable event in weather history, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and timely warnings.
3. Heat Wave Drought of 1980
The summer of 1980 brought one of the deadliest heat waves to Arkansas.
Temperatures soared above 100 degrees for weeks. This prolonged heat and lack of rain led to severe drought conditions.
Many areas experienced days where no relief was in sight.
The 1980 heat wave affected much of the Midwest and Southern Plains. In Arkansas, the heat was relentless.
Arkansas recorded numerous consecutive days with temperatures over 100 degrees. The strong ridge of high pressure kept the jet stream to the north, worsening the situation.
Crops failed and rivers dried up, putting stress on both people and the environment.
This heat wave claimed many lives. It remains a stark reminder of nature’s power and the importance of preparedness during extreme weather events.
4. Superstorm Sandy’s remnants (2012)
In 2012, the remnants of Superstorm Sandy reached Arkansas, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to the region.
Though Arkansas was far from the storm’s main impact zone, it still experienced weather disruptions.
These remnants resulted in localized flooding in some areas, causing minor property damage and road closures.
The state saw wind speeds that, while not as strong as those in the eastern U.S., were significant enough to uproot trees and knock out power for some residents.
The aftermath of Superstorm Sandy highlighted the widespread reach of the storm, affecting areas far beyond the East Coast.
Locals in Arkansas prepared for the severe weather by securing outdoor items and staying indoors during the worst of the storm.
5. 2008 Super Tuesday Tornado Outbreak
On February 5-6, 2008, the 2008 Super Tuesday Tornado Outbreak struck Arkansas, causing significant damage.
During this event, 87 tornadoes occurred in nine states over a 12-hour period. Arkansas was hit hard, with numerous severe storms.
The outbreak led to high risks of storms, declared for the first time in February since 1998. The Storm Prediction Center had issued a warning for most of Arkansas.
One of the two tornadoes in Jackson was the third violent tornado to strike the area in 10 years, with previous F4 tornadoes causing devastation.
This outbreak resulted in fatalities and massive property damage. Homes were damaged, and trees were downed as tornados swept through various counties.
The event was part of a larger system affecting the southern United States and the lower Ohio Valley. The 2008 outbreak remains one of the largest and deadliest February tornado events in recorded history.
6. Hurricane Gustav’s impact (2008)
Hurricane Gustav made a significant impact on Arkansas in 2008. Once it entered the state, Gustav brought heavy rain, causing flash flooding in several areas.
Strong winds from the storm resulted in widespread power outages and damage to buildings, trees, and infrastructure.
Roads became hazardous, disrupting travel and daily life.
Arkansas experienced severe weather conditions due to the remnants of Gustav, challenging the state’s emergency response systems.
7. Hurricane Ike remnants (2008)
Hurricane Ike struck Arkansas in 2008, primarily as remnants after wreaking havoc in Texas. Though downgraded, the storm brought significant wind and rain to the state.
Strong winds from Ike caused extensive damage to trees and power lines.
Many areas experienced power outages, disrupting daily life and recovery efforts.
Rainfall from the storm led to flash flooding in several regions of Arkansas. The flooding damaged homes, roads, and infrastructure, challenging the community.
8. 1997 Arkansas Great Flood
In 1997, Arkansas faced one of its most severe floods.
Heavy rains in March led to the overflowing of streams and rivers.
The flood affected various regions, causing extensive damage.
Roads were washed away, and homes were submerged.
The 1997 Arkansas Great Flood resulted in numerous evacuations. Emergency services worked round the clock to rescue residents.
Farmland was severely impacted. Thousands of acres were underwater, affecting crop production for the season.
Economic losses were significant. The state’s infrastructure took months to repair.
9. Hurricane Rita remnants (2005)
Hurricane Rita struck the Gulf Coast in September 2005 and was one of the most intense hurricanes recorded. Though it primarily impacted Texas and Louisiana, its remnants traveled north to Arkansas.
The remnants brought heavy rain and flooding to Arkansas.
Streets and highways, especially U.S. Highway 67/167, experienced significant water accumulation, causing disruptions.
Tornadic activity was also reported.
A notable tornado rated EF2 hit just southeast of Center Hill in White County, damaging homes and infrastructure. This storm showcased the wide-reaching impact of hurricanes, even far from the coast.
10. Spring flooding of 2019
The spring flooding of 2019 was one of the most severe natural disasters in Arkansas’s history.
The Arkansas River broke multiple high-water records. Rainfall between May 18-30 led to rivers swelling dramatically.
At its peak, the flood crested over 2.5 feet above the previous record set in 1945 at Van Buren.
The flooding caused extensive damage, estimated at $3 billion by the National Centers for Environmental Information.
The disaster highlighted the state’s aging levee and transportation infrastructure. The historic flood affected many communities and required significant recovery efforts.
Five lives were lost due to the catastrophic event. The heavy rains and resulting floods made it one of the most devastating natural events in the area. Significant rainfall and the confluence of multiple rivers contributed to the extensive damage.
Geographic Impact on Storm Intensity
Arkansas’ location and geography play a significant role in the intensity and frequency of storms. The state’s topography and proximity to the Gulf of Mexico influence weather patterns and storm development.
Arkansas’ Unique Topography
Arkansas has diverse terrain that affects storm behavior. The Ozark and Ouachita Mountains in the north and west can impact storm paths and wind speeds.
These mountainous regions often alter incoming weather fronts, potentially increasing the intensity of rain and thunderstorms.
Flatlands in central and eastern Arkansas, including the Mississippi Alluvial Plain, provide less resistance to storm systems. This allows storms to maintain or even gain strength as they move across the state.
Severe weather, such as tornadoes, is common due to these geographical features. Tornadoes can have more room to develop, especially in the flatter areas, leading to more powerful and destructive storms.
Influence of Gulf of Mexico
The Gulf of Mexico significantly impacts weather patterns in Arkansas. Warm, moist air from the Gulf can fuel storm systems, leading to more intense weather events.
Hurricanes and tropical storms, like Tropical Storm Beryl, can bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and tornadoes to the state.
Storms originating from the Gulf often move northward, influenced by prevailing wind patterns. Arkansas’s position puts it in a direct path for these systems, making the state susceptible to severe weather during hurricane season.
Cyclonic activity in the Gulf and its movement towards Arkansas can result in significant weather events, including widespread flooding and wind damage. The proximity of Arkansas to this large body of water plays a crucial role in the type and severity of storms experienced.
Historical Data and Trends
This section explores the frequency of major storms that have hit Arkansas over the decades, as well as advancements in storm tracking and prediction.
Frequency of Major Storms Over the Decades
Arkansas has experienced significant tornadoes and severe storms since records began in 1950. The state has seen varying numbers of storms each decade, influenced by changing weather patterns and climatic conditions.
Using data from the NOAA Storm Events Database, some decades showed peaks in storm frequency, like the 1970s and early 2000s. More recent years have also seen intense storm activity, partly attributed to climate change.
The intensity and destruction scale of these storms are measured using the Enhanced Fujita Scale. Larger tornadoes, often ranked EF4 or EF5, have caused significant damage and loss of life.
For example, the deadly outbreak on March 21, 1952, remains the deadliest in Arkansas, with 112 fatalities. The historical data on these storms helps in understanding their patterns and potential future trends.
Improvements in Storm Tracking and Prediction
Advancements in technology over the decades have significantly improved storm tracking and prediction.
The National Weather Service in Little Rock has documented these advancements, highlighting the transition from basic radar systems to sophisticated models that give detailed forecast paths.
ArcGIS maps and satellite technology have enabled precise mapping of tornado tracks and damage points.
These tools provide real-time updates, allowing for prompt warnings and saving lives.
Early models were often inaccurate, but today’s technology can predict storm paths with much higher accuracy.
This progress also includes community alert systems, which ensure that residents receive timely information to take necessary precautions.