SEBASTIAN COUNTY, Ark. — The National Weather Service has issued a preliminary rating of EF-1 for a tornado that touched down in Sebastian County Saturday evening as a powerful storm system swept across western Arkansas, bringing damaging winds, flooding rainfall, and widespread power outages. Preliminary reports indicate the tornado caused damage in the Excelsior area, with additional storm-related damage reported near Witcherville and south of Greenwood. Emergency officials continue to assess the full extent of the damage.
According to reports from Sebastian County Emergency Management, damage was observed in the Hendrix Road area south of Greenwood, while radar also indicated a tornadic debris signature associated with the storm. National Weather Service survey teams are expected to continue evaluating the damage path to determine final ratings and track information.
While Sebastian County dealt with tornado damage, neighboring Scott County faced a different threat as torrential rainfall led to significant flooding across multiple communities. Residents reported water covering roadways, flooding in low-lying areas, and rapidly rising creeks and drainage ditches throughout the county.
In Waldron, flooding was reported in portions of the downtown area, while several trees were brought down by the severe weather. Power outages affected parts of the city, particularly on the south and west sides. Additional flooding was reported in the Blanchard and Nella communities as heavy rainfall overwhelmed drainage systems.
Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of fatalities associated with either the tornado or flooding as emergency crews, utility workers, and first responders worked through the night responding to storm-related calls.
The storms served as a reminder of the dangers posed by both tornadoes and flash flooding. Weather officials continue to emphasize the importance of monitoring forecasts and avoiding flooded roadways. The National Weather Service regularly reminds motorists to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown,” noting that most flood-related fatalities occur in vehicles.
Cleanup efforts are expected to continue throughout the weekend as residents assess damage, clear debris, and recover from one of the most significant severe weather events to impact the area this year.
Residents with storm damage are encouraged to document losses and report damage to local emergency management officials as assessment efforts continue.
