Hot Springs, Arkansas – Severe weather hit southeast Garland County early Wednesday morning, leaving a trail of destruction from Amity to Rush Fork roads to 3300 Malvern Road. County Judge Darryl Mahoney reported on the widespread damage caused by the possible tornado that swept through the area.
As emergency crews rushed to the scene, reports of downed trees and power lines emerged, with thousands of Entergy Arkansas customers left without service. Thankfully, no deaths have been reported so far, with only minor injuries incurred. The Hot Springs Fire Department, along with other local fire departments, conducted search and rescue operations in heavily affected communities.
Garland County Sheriff Mike McCormick confirmed that no major injuries or fatalities were reported following the storm. However, the Amity Road area bore the brunt of the damage, with mobile homes being pushed off their pads and trees uprooted.
The city of Hot Springs worked diligently to clear streets and containment gas leaks with Summit Utilities in various locations. The damage extended to the Animal Services building on Davidson Drive, where light damage occurred, including a destroyed shed roof and downed electrical lines.
Residents were urged to avoid damaged areas as emergency crews worked to assess the extent of the destruction and provide assistance to those in need. A tornado warning issued by the National Weather Service added to the chaos as reports of damaged homes flooded in.
The images of devastation, captured by local news outlets, underscored the severity of the storm’s impact on the community. As cleanup efforts began, road closures were implemented to ensure public safety and facilitate debris removal. The resilience of the community shone through as residents came together to support one another in the aftermath of the destructive weather event.
Moving forward, authorities continue to monitor the situation, providing updates to the public on road accessibility and safety precautions. With more severe weather forecasted, residents are urged to stay vigilant and prepared for potential further impact. The collaborative efforts of first responders and local agencies remain pivotal in restoring normalcy to the affected areas.