April 5, 2025 — 3:20 p.m.
Motorists are being urged to use extreme caution as flooding continues to impact several roads throughout Independence County and surrounding areas.
Batesville Closures:
City officials are asking drivers to steer clear of the following roadways:
- Stadium Drive
- Southerland Drive
- A portion of Lawrence Street
Drivers are reminded not to bypass ROAD CLOSED signs under any circumstances.
State Highway Closures:
According to the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT):
- State Highway 37 at Cord is now officially closed.
Independence County Road Conditions:
The Independence County Sheriff’s Office reports multiple closures due to flooding. The following roads are currently impassable:
- Jamestown Road in the bottoms
- Miller Creek Road near the rodeo arena
- North Vaughn Road at Sulphur Rock
- Mill Dam Road off Highway 106
- McHue Road — barricaded in the straight stretch due to water
Officials note that repairs will be necessary on North Vaughn once the water recedes, particularly at the low-water bridge.
Sharp County Impact:
Flooding has made several roadways in Sharp County hazardous and inaccessible:
- Portions of State Highways 175 and 342
- Highway 63 near Cherokee Village and Hardy
Lawrence County Closure:
A 1.27-mile stretch of State Highway 115 is also closed due to flooding conditions.
Authorities throughout the region are emphasizing a critical safety reminder:
Turn around. Don’t drown.
Motorists are urged to avoid any roads covered by water, as conditions can change rapidly and pose significant danger. Stay tuned to local updates for ongoing road status changes.