1. Severe Weather Hits Texarkana
There’s no denying it – severe weather can be a major pain. Not only does it cause damage and disrupt travel plans, but it can also be dangerous. In the case of Texarkana, severe weather hit the city hard on Tuesday, causing power outages, school closures, and more.
The National Weather Service had issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the area earlier in the day, and it certainly proved to be warranted. High winds and heavy rains battered the city, causing widespread damage.
According to the Texarkana Gazette, over 20,000 customers lost power at the height of the storm. Schools were also closed due to the weather, with many students having to take shelter in hallways and classrooms.
Thankfully, no serious injuries or fatalities have been reported as a result of the storm. However, the damage is significant, and it will take some time for the city to recover.
If you were affected by the severe weather in Texarkana, we hope that you are safe and sound. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time.
2. Tornado Warning in Effect for Texarkana
The National Weather Service has issued a tornado warning for parts of Texarkana, Arkansas. The tornado warning is in effect until 5:15 PM CDT.
A severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near Hooks, or near Texarkana, moving northeast at 30 mph.
HAZARD…Tornado.
SOURCE…Radar indicated rotation.
IMPACT…Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles will occur. Tree damage is likely.
This dangerous storm will be near…
Texarkana Regional Airport around 515 PM CDT.
Other locations impacted by this tornadic thunderstorm include Nash, Wake Village, Red Lick and Garland City.
Preparations should be made immediately for damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles. Flying debris will be dangerous to those caught without shelter. Mobile homes will be damaged or destroyed. Tree damage is likely.
3. Heavy rains and strong winds to continue throughout the day
The National Weather Service in Shreveport has issued a
Flash Flood Warning for Southeastern Bowie County in Northeastern Texas,
Northwestern Miller County in southwestern Arkansas,
Southeastern Cass County in northeastern Texas and
Northwestern Lafayette County in southwestern Arkansas until 515 PM CDT.
At 310 PM CDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Up to three inches of rain have already fallen. Flash flooding is expected to begin shortly.
Some locations that will experience flooding include…
Texarkana, Atlanta, Queen City, Wake Village, Nash, Hooks, Red Lick,
Maud, Ozan, Doddridge, Ida, Bivins, Redwater,
Bright Star, Fouke, Crossroads, Union Hill, Wilton and Liberty Eylau.
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS..
Turn around, and don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. ost flood deaths occur in vehicles.
Please report flooding to your local law enforcement agency when you can do so safely.
4. Flash flood warnings are also in effect
A flash flood warning is in effect for parts of Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas. This means that flooding is imminent or already occurring in these areas. If you are in the warned area, you should take immediate steps to protect yourself and your property.
This warning is in effect until further notice.
Some areas that may be impacted include:
– Texarkana, Arkansas
– Shreveport, Louisiana
– Longview, Texas
– Marshall, Texas
– Nacogdoches, Texas
If you are in any of these areas, you should monitor the situation closely and be prepared to take action if flooding develops.
5. Power outages reported across the city
The city of Texarkana is no stranger to power outages.
In the past few years, we’ve seen a number of outages due to severe weather.
Just last month, we had a major outage that affected over 8,000 customers
Now, we’re seeing a new round of outages, this time affecting even more customers.
As of this morning, there are 5 outages reported across the city.
The first outage was reported at around 1:00 AM and affected over 1,000 customers.
The second outage was reported at around 3:00 AM and affected over 2,000 customers.
The third outage was reported at around 4:00 AM and affected over 4,000 customers.
The fourth outage was reported at around 5:00 AM and affected over 6,000 customers.
The fifth and final outage was reported at around 6:00 AM and affected over 8,000 customers.
At this time, it’s unclear what caused these outages.
However, we do know that they are affecting a wide range of customers across the city.
We will continue to update this story as more information becomes available.
6. Residents are urged to stay indoors and avoid travel if possible
The National Weather Service has issued a hazardous weather outlook for Bowie County in Northeast Texas. The outlook includes the possibility of severe thunderstorms, heavy rain, and flooding. Residents are urged to stay indoors and avoid travel if possible.
The thunderstorms are expected to develop late this afternoon and evening and could produce damaging wind gusts, large hail, and torrential rain. Heavy rain could lead to flooding, especially in low-lying areas and along creeks, streams, and bayous.
If you must travel, be sure to monitor the latest weather reports and plan your route accordingly. Avoid driving through flooded areas, and never drive around barricades. Stay tuned to your local news for the latest updates on the weather.