Flash Flood in Benton County, Arkansas

Several city streets were closed due to widespread flooding. Significant damage to roads and bridges occurred in this portion of the county. At least six homes were damaged by flood waters. Numerous water rescues were necessary.

Widespread heavy rains occurred late on the 7th and through the morning of the 8th across northwest Arkansas where a nearly stationary frontal boundary was in place. Deep moisture and modest instability allowed for numerous showers and thunderstorms to develop and move over the area, resulting in widespread flash flooding. Significant damage occurred to roads and bridges due to flooding across Benton and Carroll Counties. Intense thunderstorms developed during the afternoon south of the frontal boundary, where strong surface heating combined with deep moisture and instability. Large hail and damaging winds occurred with the stronger storms over parts of west central Arkansas.