NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) is currently reaching out to local officials to gather updated information about the impacts of severe weather across the state. As of 11:45 a.m. on Thursday, April 3, the number of reported injuries remains at four, with no fatalities, and approximately 15,400 customers remain without power, according to poweroutage.us. Please note that these numbers are subject to change.
Local officials are conducting damage assessments, a process that will take time as severe weather continues to affect the state. Preliminary reports indicate damage to homes, trees, power lines, and roadways caused by wind gusts, hail, tornadoes, and flash flooding.
Heavy rainfall is expected to continue through Saturday. To help mitigate flooding concerns, ADEM is working to fulfill resource requests for sandbags.
Currently, two sandbagging machines have been deployed to Saline and Jackson counties. ADEM is collaborating with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to deploy sandbagging machines to four additional counties: Arkansas, Independence, Prairie, and Sharp. We are also working with various local vendors to source sandbags for distribution to counties as needed.
Flash flooding can happen suddenly and can be very dangerous. If you encounter moving water, do not attempt to cross it. Just six inches of moving water can knock a person down, while two feet can sweep away a vehicle. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
If a tornado warning and a flood warning are both in effect, it is safest to seek shelter in an interior room without windows on the lowest floor. Ideally, choose a location that allows for quick access to higher ground in case you need to escape rising water.
During a flood, it is best to stay informed. Tune into your local news for updates and follow evacuation orders if given. Heed warning signs and road closures. If you have time before you evacuate, disconnect utilities and appliances. Never walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters, as they can be deeper and more dangerous than they appear.
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.