In a sudden turn of events, a tornado slammed Little Rock, wreaking havoc on rooftops and flipping vehicles, leaving residents in a state of shock and disbelief. This devastating event has left people wondering about the tornado’s path, the extent of the damage, and the number of casualties. Let’s dive deeper into the details of this unforgettable day.
The Tornado’s Path
Initially, the tornado tore through west Little Rock neighborhoods, destroying a small shopping center and a Kroger grocery store. Afterward, it crossed the Arkansas River, reaching North Little Rock and surrounding cities. There, it caused extensive damage to homes, businesses, and vehicles.
Assessing the Damage
According to the Little Rock Fire Department, the western region of the city has incurred significant destruction and debris. Their Facebook page highlighted rescue operations being conducted in the affected areas. Many homes had their rooftops torn off, while countless vehicles were flipped and damaged. Almost 70,000 customers in Arkansas faced power outages, with additional outages reported in Kansas, Missouri, and Texas.
Casualties and Injuries
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences Medical Center in Little Rock operated at a mass casualty level, expecting at least 15 to 20 patients. Mark Hulsey, a special projects manager for Pulaski County, reported at least one person in critical condition. The exact count of injured individuals remains unknown.
Coping with the Aftermath
Following the tornado, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders declared a state of emergency, acknowledging the significant damage in the central part of the state. Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. requested assistance from the National Guard, urging residents to stay off the roads and away from affected areas to allow emergency responders to work.
Weather Awareness and Safety
More than 350,000 people were at risk from the “confirmed large and destructive tornado,” as described by the National Weather Service. As storms continued to move through, Gov. Sanders advised Arkansans to stay weather aware, reminding them of the importance of safety during such natural disasters.
The tornado that slammed Little Rock, smashing rooftops and flipping vehicles, will be etched in the memories of those who experienced it. As we continue to learn about the tornado’s path, the extent of the damage, and the number of casualties, it’s crucial to remember the importance of staying weather aware and prepared for any future storms.
