NORTH LITTLE ROCK, – Arkansas is reeling from a powerful wave of severe weather that swept across the state overnight, bringing tornadoes, high winds, hail, and flash flooding. As of 11:45 a.m. today, the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) reports four injuries, no fatalities, and approximately 15,400 customers still without power, according to poweroutage.us. These figures are preliminary and expected to shift as assessments continue amid ongoing storms.
Local officials are working tirelessly to evaluate damage, a process complicated by persistent severe weather. Early reports confirm widespread impacts, including damaged homes, uprooted trees, downed power lines, and blocked roadways. The culprits: fierce wind gusts, golf-ball-sized hail, confirmed tornadoes, and rapidly rising floodwaters. ADEM is coordinating with communities statewide to gather real-time updates as the situation evolves.
Heavy rainfall, forecast to persist through Saturday, is heightening flooding concerns. ADEM has mobilized resources, deploying sandbagging machines to Saline and Jackson counties, with four more slated for Arkansas, Independence, Prairie, and Sharp counties in collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Sandbags are also being sourced from local vendors to bolster defenses. Authorities warn that flash flooding can strike suddenly—just six inches of moving water can knock a person off their feet, and two feet can sweep away a vehicle. “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” remains the urgent mantra for residents.
ADEM advises those in tornado- and flood-prone areas to seek shelter in interior, windowless rooms on the lowest floor, with quick access to higher ground if waters rise. Staying informed is critical—residents should monitor local news, obey evacuation orders, and avoid floodwaters, which may conceal unseen dangers. Before evacuating, disconnect utilities if time allows, but never risk safety to do so.
As Arkansas braces for more stormy days ahead, ADEM continues its mission as the state’s homeland security and preparedness agency, working to mitigate disaster impacts through prevention, response, and recovery efforts. For updates or assistance, contact ADEM at (501) 683-6700 or visit www.adem.arkansas.gov. The resilience of Arkansans is being tested, but coordinated action and vigilance aim to see the state through this turbulent weather event.
