ARKANSAS, USA — Some schools are beginning to announce closures due to winter weather for Thursday, Jan. 18.
For most of the week, districts across Arkansas and eastern Oklahoma have been closed due to icy conditions.
After a brief warm-up on Wednesday, our 5NEWS meteorologists say a quick passing system will hit Thursday with a patchy wintry mix possible in the morning, possibly causing temporary slick spots.
The last time Arkansas saw well below zero degrees was back in 2021 during a record-breaking cold blast. That's when Fayetteville hit a record low of -20 degrees.
The precipitation expected Thursday may bring some wintry mix (freezing rain, sleet, and snowflakes) across Arkansas, especially to the east. An ice storm could set up closer to Memphis.
Tap here to check our interactive weather radar.
For a full list of school closings across our area, click here.
School Closings
West Fork School District was the first Northwest Arkansas area school to announce class cancelations for Thursday, Jan. 18.
Fayetteville Public Schools followed and announced they will also be closed on Thursday.
In eastern Oklahoma, a handful of schools have already announced either a cancelation for Thursday or online learning.
You can find the full updated list here.