Arkansas

Things to know...

Details that are different from state to state and may make your posting just a little bit easier!

• Weather & Natural Disasters

  Arkansas experiences a variety of weather that complements its lush, rolling landscapes. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the low 90s, while winters are generally mild, averaging between 30°F and 50°F. The state experiences a variety of severe weather events, with tornadoes, thunderstorms, flooding, and extreme heat posing the greatest risks. They also experience occasional winter ice storms, which are more notable because they can cause significant disruption to areas unaccustomed to prolonged freezing weather.

  Tornados

  Arkansas peak tornado season runs from March to May, with an average of 37 tornadoes occurring statewide each year. While many are weak, some can be severe, making preparation essential. If you hear a siren outside of a test, immediately seek shelter in a storm shelter, basement, or interior room away from windows. Keeping an emergency kit with food, water, and essential supplies is crucial. Tornado siren testing schedules vary by location, so it’s best to check with the local county for specific details.

  Prepare

  Receiving weather warnings, alerts and updates through multiple means will ensure that you are prepared and can act quickly. NOAA weather radio, local weather broadcasts, outdoor sirens, wireless emergency alerts (if you switch to an American area code), weather apps, and social media are all great tools to receive national and statewide disaster and emergency alerts.

  For more in-depth information, check out ready.gov, a national campaign aimed at educating and empowering individuals to prepare for, respond to, and mitigate emergencies and disasters.

• Neighbourhoods

  Cities: Little Rock

  Little Rock is located approximately 17 miles southwest of Little Rock Air Force base. Jacksonville is located adjacent to Little Rock AFB and may provide even more convenient access and a shorter commute to base.

  Neighborhood Navigator: A tool from Military One Source that helps you explore and learn more about a community, including information on schools, amenities, demographics, and more. 

• Little Rock Air Force Base

  For more detailed information about each base, including contact information and specific services offered, you can visit Military One Source and select your state followed by your installation > Little Rock Air Force Base. 

  Spouses and dependants with valid DoD ID cards Department of Defense (DoD) identification cards should have access to Little Rock Air Force Base, which offers a range of amenities including a commissary, exchange, MWR facilities, fitness and recreation options, and family support services. For the most updated information, visit Little Rock AFB MWR.
• Getting Around

  Getting around Little Rock is mostly car-dependent, with major highways like I-30, I-40, and I-430 providing easy access across the city. Be prepared for rush hour congestion, especially downtown and around the River Market District.

• On-Base Medical Treatment Facility

  The 19th Medical Group at Little Rock Air Force Base provides comprehensive medical care to CAF Families who have been enrolled in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) and have TRICARE eligibility.

  Unsure about your healthcare coverage? Visit our Healthcare in the U.S. webpage, where you'll find tailored pathways for personalized coverage details. 
• Critters & Wildlife

  Arkansas is home to wildlife such as venomous snakes like the Western Diamondback rattlesnake and cottonmouth, as well as ticks that can carry Lyme disease, especially in wooded areas. The state also has insects like fire ants and occasional encounters with black bears in more rural areas. Compared to Canada, Arkansas has a wider range of reptiles and insects, so routine pest control is recommended to manage mosquitoes, termites, and other pests that thrive in the humid climate.

• Children's Education

  There are several public schools along with a few charter schools within a 25-mile radius of Little Rock.

  • Little Rock School District
  • Pulaski County Special School District
  • North Little Rock School District
  • Bryant School District
  • Benton School District

  Charter Schools

  • LISA Academy is a public charter school system in Arkansas that offers an academically rigorous college preparatory program with a strong emphasis on STEM education. The academy operates multiple campuses, including those in the Little Rock area. For military families stationed at Little Rock Air Force Base, LISA Academy's commitment to supporting military children, combined with its strong academic programs, makes it a noteworthy educational option. LISA Academy does offer French Language classes, clubs and cultural festivals as part of its extracurricular activities. While not a full immersion program, these classes provide students with exposure to the French language and culture. Participation in some courses is based on a selection process or tryouts.

  
  It is highly recommended that you connect with your installation’s School Liaison, who can provide valuable information on local school districts, act as a bridge between the military community and school administrators, and offer expert guidance on educational matters.

  Little Rock AFB School Liaison Program

• Child Care

  Child Development Centers

  Child Development Centers (CDCs) generally offer childcare for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Care is available Monday through Friday, with some locations offering options such as extended hours, weekend care, and respite care. Child Development Centers vary in size, and larger installations may operate multiple facilities. Programs are certified by the Department of Defense and accredited by a national accrediting body, such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children.

  For a full list of military-operated childcare programs, including Child Development Centers, childcare programs, before- and after-school care, as well as summer and holiday camps, visit MilitaryChildCare.com. There, you can enter your location or military installation to find a comprehensive list of childcare programs, as well as submit requests for care through Child Development Centers, school-age care programs, and DOD-certified Family Child Care providers.

  Additional Child and Developement Resources

  Vsit our Family Care webpage, where you’ll find parenting and advocacy programs, development resources, toolkits, and more.

• Automobile Registration, Plates & Licenses

  The Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration provides information on transferring out-of-state titles and licenses.