Little Rock, Arkansas reported significant damages after a large tornado ran through the city on Friday.
Earlier on Friday, numerous tornado warnings were issued for multiple areas in central Arkansas. The first warning, covering parts of Garland and Hot Spring Counties, would be effective until 1:45 pm. The second warning, encompassing Cleburne, Conway, Stone, and Van Buren Counties, would remain in effect until 2 pm. Additionally, another warning would cover sections of Clark, Garland, Hot Spring, Montgomery, and Pike, also until 2 pm.
LARGE TORNADO ON THE GROUND NEAR LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS
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At 2:28 pm, the National Weather Service declared a tornado emergency for the Little Rock metropolitan area, with a high risk of catastrophic damage. The Weather Service reported a large and destructive tornado over Burns Park, which had moved towards North Little Rock by 2:32 pm
The Little Rock metro area has suffered significant damage, with reports of trees down in major roadways causing multiple crashes. One such crash has brought traffic in both directions on Interstate 430 near Rodney Parham Road to a halt. It is advised to avoid the area until further notice and to exercise caution when traveling in affected areas.
How to stay safe during a tornado?
During a tornado, it is important to take steps to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. If possible, seek shelter in a basement or storm cellar. If you do not have access to one of these, move to an interior room on the lowest level of your building, away from windows and doors. Protect yourself by covering your head and neck with your arms or with a blanket or pillow. If you are driving, try to find shelter immediately. If you cannot find shelter, park your car, put on your seatbelt, and cover yourself with a blanket or coat. Stay alert to tornado warnings and follow the instructions of local authorities.