State of Emergency Declared in Little Rock
Arkansas has been hit by a series of powerful and destructive tornadoes that have caused widespread damage and injuries. The National Weather Service issued a rare “high risk” alert for strong to violent tornadoes, damaging thunderstorm winds and hail, which resulted in a state of emergency being declared in Little Rock.
The severe weather outbreak has been expected to bring strong tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail to 21 states in the central and southern US. Tornado watches were issued for 15 million people from southern Arkansas to northern Iowa, with sources announcing the threat of several strong tornadoes, particularly over portions of the Mid-Mississippi Valley to the Mid-South.
Heavy structure damage occurred in several neighborhoods including Amboy, Levy, Indian Hills, and Burns Park. According to the North Little Rock Police Department, injuries were reported. Baptist Hospital’s Little Rock and North Little Rock medical centers were anticipating a surge in patients due to the storm’s impact, preparing staff, supplies, and additional areas to treat patients.
Turbulent Damage Reported Across Multiple States
Severe thunderstorms also hit other states, causing significant damage across multiple areas. Homes, businesses and vehicles were hit by hailstones in parts of Missouri, Iowa and Arkansas. Reports emerged that the Little Rock area had suffered mass casualties as well as serious damages to residential properties.
The National Weather Service observers noted reports of injuries in west Little Rock where flying debris hurt many individuals. In addition, it was reported that overturn cars that flew like kites during the severe weather also contributed to human injuries.
Local law enforcement officials requested that people stay away from affected areas so that search and rescue crew can be more effective when helping those in need.
Emergency Response Services Activated Across Multiple States
Tornado debris was spotted close to Hot Springs. Students residing in the Pulaski County Special School District were instructed to stay indoors due to a tornado warning. The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management has activated the state’s Emergency Operations Center to full activation.
Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders directed $250,000 to the Division of Emergency Management from the governor’s Disaster Response and Recovery Fund. Meanwhile, Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. asked Gov. Sanders for National Guard assistance.
Ways to receive watches and warnings from the National Weather Service were shared with the masses, so people could increase their chance of staying safe during severe weather emergencies.
Power Outages Amidst Severe Weather
After the storm hit, more than 50,000 homes and businesses in Little Rock went without electricity. Crews have since been working to restore service.
The extreme weather had an impact on emergency services, with reports indicating multiple ambulances and firefighters struggling to navigate around affected areas.
Preparing for Unexpected Severe Weather
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear issued a state of emergency ahead of severe weather headed for his state. It is crucial that residents have a severe weather plan in place before a storm strikes.
A moderate risk of severe storms stretches from northern Mississippi to Iowa. This includes Indianapolis, Indiana; Little Rock, Arkansas; Des Moines, Iowa; and St. Louis.
Swaths of intense damaging wind gusts coupled with very large hail are also expected. At least a few long-track, strong to potentially violent tornadoes are probable.
During this severe weather season, experts suggest monitoring local news outlets or government Twitter feeds for updates as well as using apps designed specifically for tracking potential dangers associated with dangerous weather events – this can help keep families safe when something unexpected breaks out.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
