Severe Thunderstorms and Tornadoes Hit Little Rock, Arkansas
On Friday, a severe outbreak of tornadoes and thunderstorms hit the Mid-South region of the United States, causing major damage and multiple injuries across Little Rock, Arkansas. The National Weather Service issued a rare ‘high-risk’ forecast for the Midwest and South regions, creating a high threat of strong to violent tornadoes, damaging winds, and hail.
In addition to reports of hail across Missouri, Iowa, and Arkansas, homes, businesses, and vehicles were hit and flipped by the violent winds. The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Medical Center is operating at a mass casualty level with up to 20 patients expected. More than 50,000 homes and businesses in Little Rock are without electricity.
Significant Damage Across the State
The tornado outbreak caused widespread damage across Arkansas. Little Rock was heavily affected with reports of damage due to flying debris and overturned cars. Trees were also knocked down blocking roads while National Weather Service observers noted reports of injuries in west Little Rock.
The North Little Rock Police Department reported heavy structure damage in several areas while the Emergency Operations Center has been established to provide aid. Jacksonville also suffered significant damage with State highway 440 slowed due to an accident.
The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management has activated the state’s Emergency Operations Center to provide needed resources to local jurisdictions as necessary. Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed an order directing $250,000 to the Division of Emergency Management.
Tornado Activity in Other States
Tornado activity was reported across other Midwest and Mid-South states. A tornado touched down in metro-Little Rock on Friday as tornado watches were issued for 15 million people stretching from southern Arkansas to northern Iowa until 8 p.m. CDT.
A rare “high-risk” Level 5 out of 5 alert was issued for parts of the Midwest and Mid-South, impacting nearly 3 million people, the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center said. Overall, the moderate risk area covers 10 million people.
Kentucky Governor has issued a state of emergency ahead of severe weather headed for the state. There is also a marginal risk of severe storms, Level 1 of 5, that extends from northeastern Texas to southern Minnesota and east to Michigan and West Virginia.
Response Efforts
Following the outbreak, the American Red Cross opened a shelter in Little Rock at Calvary Baptist Church with Little Rock opening a temporary emergency shelter at Hall High School.
Baptist Hospital’s Little Rock and North Little Rock medical centers are anticipating a surge in patients and are preparing staff and additional areas to treat patients. Tornado sirens were also heard blaring past Hot Springs with debris even being spotted on radar in the region.
Tips for Staying Safe During Severe Weather
With severe weather expected to continue across the region, it’s important to stay safe during such incidents. Tips include receiving watches and warnings from the National Weather Service, planning for safe shelter, and knowing where community storm shelters or nearby homes are located.
Overall, it’s important to be aware of the risks that severe weather can pose and take steps to stay safe during these events. With response efforts underway across Arkansas, many organizations are working hard to ensure that those affected by this severe weather event receive adequate support and care.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
