Storms loom as graduation ceremonies, state tournaments move forward

Four inches of rain expected next week, forecasters say

File photo
File photo

A chance of severe storms in Northwest Arkansas loomed over high school graduation ceremonies and state sports tournaments on Saturday morning.

Forecasters say that the greatest probability of seeing hail and 60 miles an hour winds has passed, though the region could see some non-severe showers and thunderstorms through the evening, according to the National Weather Service. Only a marginal chance of severe weather exists in the region the rest of the day.

Springdale High School held its commencement Saturday morning at Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville.

Springdale Har-Ber High School is planning to hold its commencement at 2 p.m. at Bud Walton Arena in Fayetteville. Friends and family can live stream the event on YouTube at youtube.com/watch?v=u-U2kzS0a0o.

Bentonville High School moved its commencement to 4 p.m. at Tiger Stadium due to the weather. Gates will open at 3 p.m., according to a Saturday social media post by the school district. Friends and family can live stream the event on YouTube at youtube.com/watch?v=wsjOnmHDRJE.

Bentonville West High School is planning to hold its commencement at 7 p.m. at Wolverine Stadium. Friends and family can live stream the event on YouTube at youtube.com/watch?v=S4yOxGEUk4I.

Storms are expected to bring several inches of rain over multiple days of the next week, raising concerns about flooding, the service said on its website. Fayetteville may see just under four inches, while Fort Smith could see more.

Showers are most likely to begin late Sunday afternoon or evening.

A high temperature of 77 degrees and a low of 59 is forecast for Saturday in Fayetteville, according to the service.

Courtesy photo -- National Weather Service
Courtesy photo -- National Weather Service
Courtesy photo -- National Weather Service
Courtesy photo -- National Weather Service
Courtesy photo -- National Weather Service
Courtesy photo -- National Weather Service

This story was originally published at 1:42 p.m.

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