A flood watch is in effect until Sunday morning for a large portion of Arkansas.
According to the National Weather Service, the White River at Batesville will experience major flooding beginning Saturday morning.
The river’s stage measured 7.6 feet Thursday morning but is expected to rise above the 15-foot flood stage late Saturday and crest at 27 feet by Sunday evening, based on rainfall forecasts for the next three days.
At 27 feet, portions of Batesville and Oil Trough will flood. Water will reach the lowest sill of the industrial park levee in Batesville, and wave action could potentially worsen conditions. Officials advise that levee openings should be closed.
Numerous road closures are expected throughout the area. According to historical data, the river crested at similar levels during two flood events in 2008, reaching 27 feet in March and 26.4 feet in April of that year. The December 1982 crest was higher at 29.3 feet.
Arkansas emergency officials are assessing damage from severe storms while preparing for more flooding as heavy rainfall is forecast to continue through Saturday.
The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) reported Thursday that four injuries had been confirmed with no fatalities following severe weather that brought wind gusts, hail, tornadoes, and flash flooding to the state. Approximately 15,400 customers remained without power as of late Thursday morning.
Local officials continue to conduct damage assessments as severe weather persists across the state. Early reports indicate damage to homes, trees, power lines, and roadways.
In response to flooding concerns, ADEM has deployed sandbagging machines to Saline and Jackson counties and is working with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide machines to four additional counties: Arkansas, Independence, Prairie, and Sharp.
“We are also collaborating with various local vendors to source sandbags for distribution to counties as needed,” ADEM officials said.
Authorities warn that flash flooding can be extremely dangerous and remind residents that just six inches of moving water can knock a person down, while two feet can sweep away a vehicle.
Officials advise residents to tune into local news for updates, follow evacuation orders if given, and avoid walking, swimming, or driving through floodwaters.
During concurrent tornado and flood warnings, authorities recommend seeking shelter in an interior room without windows on the lowest floor that allows quick access to higher ground if needed.
Image: Gena Tate, White River Now
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