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The National Weather Service has updated its forecast for Baxter County, increasing projected snowfall totals to as much as 6 inches. A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until Friday evening, with winter weather expected to create hazardous driving conditions Thursday afternoon and into Friday morning.
Driving is strongly discouraged during this time due to deteriorating road conditions. Those who must travel are urged to check the latest updates on road conditions at IDriveArkansas.com to ensure safe routes.
Mountain Home Public Schools will release students early at 1:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, and all classes are canceled on Friday, January 10. Superintendent Allyson Dewey said the decision prioritizes safety for both students and staff. “My top concern is ensuring our kids and staff get home safely, and this early release should allow for that,” Dewey said in an email to families.
North Arkansas Electric Cooperative (NAEC) has also released an update regarding power outage concerns. While widespread outages are not anticipated due to snow, the cooperative remains prepared for any unexpected issues.
“Unusually heavy, wet snow like our area experienced in January 2023 can lead to power outages, but that type of snow is a rare occurrence,” said James Woody, vice president of operations. “Unlike ice that weighs down lines and equipment, most snow accumulation has little effect on the distribution system.”
NAEC encourages residents to maintain an emergency kit with food, water, medications, and flashlights in case of outages.
In addition to the snowfall in Baxter County, the National Weather Service predicts significantly higher accumulations in other parts of the state. Areas between Mena, Hot Springs, and Little Rock could see snowfall totals nearing a foot. Central Arkansas, in particular, is expected to experience heavy, wet snow, which could make travel extremely hazardous and increase the risk of power outages in some areas.
Southern Arkansas faces a different set of challenges, with the potential for a wintry mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow. Ice accumulations of up to a quarter of an inch are possible in some areas, especially near the Louisiana border. These conditions could result in downed power lines and widespread travel disruptions.
Once conditions stabilize in North Arkansas, NAEC has plans to assist neighboring electric cooperatives in southern Arkansas, which are bracing for significant ice-related damage. “Once we know that our service area is in the clear as far as potential outages, we might be sending help to our fellow co-ops in the southern part of the state that are expecting ice,” Woody said.
Residents are urged to stay informed with their local news broadcasters for weather updates and information as forecasts adjust.
