LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (AP) - Storms passing through south Arkansas in advance of a line of heavy rainfall prompted tornado warnings for several counties in the region, and at least one tornado was reported. There were no reports of injuries.
The National Weather Service says flash flooding is likely as a major storm dumps more rain on areas already soaked by weeks of record-setting precipitation. Forecasters say 5 to 7 inches of rain is expected in parts of central and southern Arkansas through late Friday, with the heaviest rain on a line from Salem to Little Rock to Camden. Areas east and west of that boundary should see 3 to 5
inches of rain.
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Turn around, don't drown
Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States. Nearly half of all flood fatalities are vehicle-related according to the National Weather Service.
The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) urges people to learn the dangers of driving into flooded roadways because drivers often underestimate the power of floodwater. Roads weaken under floodwater and drivers should proceed cautiously after waters have receded, since the road may collapse under the weight of the vehicle.
- Twelve inches of water will float many vehicles.
- Two feet of rushing water will carry away most vehicles, including pick-up trucks and sport utility vehicles.
- Water across a road may hide a missing segment of roadbed or a missing bridge.
- Because disaster can strike at any time, ADEM encourages everyone to have a disaster supply kit in their home and vehicle.
When there’s water on the road: Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Saving your life is as simple as choosing an alternate route. If you are driving and your vehicle stalls in flood water, the best advice is to get out quickly and move to higher ground.
