Little Rock, Ark. – The recent spell of below-freezing temperatures in Arkansas has led to widespread water issues in various cities as the state gradually begins to thaw. Throughout the week, the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management, working in conjunction with the Governor’s office, has been actively involved in providing assistance and coordinating relief efforts in affected communities.
In Phillips County, a water shortage affecting 8,000 to 9,000 residents has been attributed to a water pump failure. Responding promptly, the Arkansas National Guard has deployed a Water Hippo with a capacity of 2,000 gallons to support the county. The Hippo was operational and in place by 10 p.m. on Thursday.
The City of Thornton in Calhoun County is grappling with a water pump malfunction, prompting a swift response from the Arkansas National Guard, which has deployed a Water Buffalo carrying 400 gallons to offer assistance.
In White County, the failure of the Pangburn water storage tank pump has left 2,600 residents without water. The local emergency coordinator has taken immediate action by delivering five pallets of water to the impacted area.
The City of Mansfield in Sebastian County faced a significant water line rupture, impacting 1,500 people, including the Mansfield Juvenile Treatment Center. The Arkansas National Guard is actively involved in placing a Water Hippo at the Mansfield City Complex to address this critical situation.
Stone County, battered by heavy rain, snow, and freezing temperatures, has seen damage to its water system’s intake structure. Responding to the crisis, Convoy of Hope, the Foodbank of North Central Arkansas, the Mountain View Fire Department, and the Arkansas State Police have collaborated to provide assistance, delivering 33 pallets of water and a 1,000-gallon tank drop-off.
High demand on the water supply in the city of Sparkman in Dallas County is causing low water issues. The Arkansas National Guard has stepped in by delivering a Water Buffalo to alleviate the situation.
Although the City of Fulton in Hempstead County remains operational, it is currently under a boil order. To support those in need of fresh water, five pallets of water have been promptly delivered.
Several other cities and communities across the state are under a boil order. The Arkansas Department of Health has compiled a comprehensive list of impacted water systems currently under a boil order, accessible here
