The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) has deployed a team to Hot Springs Village to assist local agencies dealing with the aftermath of an F2 tornado that hit the Garland County community Thursday night.

The tornado caused significant damage in the community, uprooting hundreds of trees, snapping utility poles, and damaging numerous homes. ADEM is working closely with local agencies coordinating responses and assisting as they evaluate the damage to homes affected by the tornado.

ADEM is committed to providing the necessary resources to help restore power, clear roadways, and minimize the impact of those affected by the tornado. ADEM will have a team on location throughout the weekend to support and assist local agencies as needed.

The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) is the state's homeland security and preparedness agency. The agency works to identify and lessen the effects of emergencies, disasters and threats to Arkansas by developing effective prevention, preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery actions for all disasters and emergencies. For additional information, contact ADEM at (501) 683-6700 or visit the website at www.adem.arkansas.gov.