Cathy Aaron, of the Hempstead County OEM, when asked about what preparations are being made said, "County Judge [Jerry] Crane and I are watching for winter weather updates, it seems to change hourly.

"I will do my best to update necessary information on the Emergency Management Facebook page.

"At this point we are still in the watch and wait stage, but also in the planning process for what may come.  As the winter weather approaches, we will have more information."

David Gummeson, Nevada County Emergency Services Coordinator and Fire Chief released a statement and multiple points of advice for residents:

"At the beginning of this week there was a lot of talk about a major winter weather storm headed our way. My hopes were that it would miss us or die down before it reached us. After my meeting yesterday with the National Weather Service and a little research on my own, all weather models have suggested the entire state of Arkansas is in fact in the direct path of this winter storm. More specifically, the southwest/southeast regional of the state is shown to receive a substantial winter mix with emphasis on sleet, ice, heavy winds and/or a mixture along with extremely cold temperatures. 

"Some suggestions to be best prepared for this possible threat would include the following: 

·      Stock up on grocery items, specifically items that are nonperishable or could be consumed without heat in worst case scenario. 

·      Gather extra bedding, candles, and/or alternative heat sources. 

·      Batteries for flashlights.

·      Stock up on water. 

·      Get all medications filled in to ensure you won’t run out within the next week. 

·       Ensure all vehicles have a full fuel tank. 

·      Plenty of pet food and supplies. 

"During and after the effects of the storm, please remember to make frequent checks on the elderly population within your community and lend a helping hand whenever you can. I also ask that you please be conscious of your pets outside and try to provide them with adequate shelter to keep warm during this time. "

Nevada County's Office of Emergency Management also has a Facebook page.

Gummeson said to watch the Nevada County OEM Facebook page for announcements soon of at least two warming stations to be set up.

Above photo was submitted by Shari N Michael Forman to SWARK.Today's facebook page in February of 2023.