ADEM – Resident News Network https://residentnewsnetwork.com Locally owned, Locally focused news + sports Fri, 01 Mar 2024 15:48:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.8 https://residentnewsnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/cropped-R-Site-Icon-1-32x32.jpg ADEM – Resident News Network https://residentnewsnetwork.com 32 32 Arkansas Division of Emergency Management Unveils New Citizen Portal for 2024 Great American Eclipse https://residentnewsnetwork.com/arkansas-division-of-emergency-management-unveils-new-citizen-portal-for-2024-great-american-eclipse/ Fri, 01 Mar 2024 15:48:32 +0000 https://residentnewsnetwork.com/?p=71392 On March 1, 2024, the Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) announced the launch of a unique web portal for information about the 2024 Great American Eclipse. The eclipse is set to occur on April 8, 2024, and ADEM’s portal will provide visitors with details on special events planned across the state. With up to 1.5 million people expected to flock to Arkansas to witness the eclipse, many communities are preparing to host visitors and ensure the event is memorable.

“We are excited to share these special event locations with those traveling into Arkansas. We hope these community events allow those traveling to our state to experience all the great things Arkansas offers,” ADEM Director A.J. Gary said.

Out of Arkansas’ 75 counties, 53 will experience a total solar eclipse, stretching over 100 miles across the state from the southwest to the northeast. Some observers will experience more than 4 minutes of darkness during the eclipse. The eclipse portal has listed over 100 activities in the days leading up to and during the April 8 event. 

The ADEM GIS and Mapping Hub is a publicly-accessible platform that provides a common operational picture and is mainly used to help those in need locate available shelters, food distribution locations, health and medical facilities, fire and police stations, and safe rooms. This platform is designed to aid people during emergencies.

The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) is the state’s homeland security and preparedness agency. The agency works to identify and lessen the effects of emergencies, disasters and threats to Arkansas by developing effective prevention, preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery actions for all disasters and emergencies. For additional information, contact ADEM at (501) 683-6700 or visit the website at www.adem.arkansas.gov.

]]> State Emergency Response Agencies Take Part in Exercise to Prepare for the 2024 Solar Eclipse https://residentnewsnetwork.com/state-emergency-response-agencies-take-part-in-exercise-to-prepare-for-the-2024-solar-eclipse/ Sat, 17 Feb 2024 05:35:27 +0000 https://residentnewsnetwork.com/?p=71027 On February 15, 2024, federal, state, local, and private agencies participated in a tabletop exercise for the 2024 Great Northern American Solar Eclipse.

“Although we have no way of predicting all of the challenges we will face on April 8th, we are doing everything in our power to ensure the safety of Arkansans and families visiting our state for the solar eclipse,” said Arkansas Public Safety Secretary Colonel Mike Hagar. “I am so impressed by the extraordinary planning and preparation that has gone into this, and I am grateful to all those who spent the day at Camp Robinson brainstorming and problem solving so that we can mitigate as many problems as possible.” 

The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) organized the event to discuss scenarios and test the response capabilities in preparation for the April 8 Solar Eclipse. The primary focus of the exercise was to examine the objectives and core capabilities required to handle the influx of visitors in the western, central, and northeastern parts of Arkansas, including the counties directly and indirectly affected by the eclipse. Nearly two-thirds of the state is inside the path of totality for the eclipse. The aim was to encourage exercise participants to review, share, and update their response plans during and after the exercise.

Several scenarios, such as severe weather, transportation and traffic management issues, and potential fuel shortages, may impact Arkansans during the solar eclipse. Additionally, there may be emergency events that could arise before, during, and after the eclipse. The exercise included communication, public information, and services related to public health and emergency medical services.

ADEM has been holding operational calls for the last year in preparation for the event. On Saturday, April 6, ADEM will activate its Emergency Operational Center. A quick-reference map of eclipse-related events planned across the state can be here.

Due to an expected influx of visitors to Arkansas, the Arkansas State Police (ASP) will play a crucial role in ensuring public safety surrounding the even. ASP will work closely with other law enforcement agencies to combat potential safety risks, manage hazards, monitor traffic flow, and enforce road safety regulations. ASP officials advise those who plan to attend the event to prepare ahead of time and be patient, as travel on the main interstates may be congested.

“We want everyone to enjoy the excitement of the day, but also be prepared for some delays and inconveniences,” Hagar said. “We’re asking for patience and understanding as we do our best to clear hurdles that will undoubtedly arise.”

Visitors to Arkansas are encouraged to explore the state’s beauty, history, and culture by checking out events and happenings at Arkansas State Parks. Click here for more information on places to go and things to visit while in the Natural State.

The Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) will provide additional message boards throughout the state to keep motorists updated on any traffic situations affecting their travel plans. ARDOT has a dedicated website for the latest information on the upcoming eclipse along withIDrive Arkansas.

To ensure safety, the National Weather Service recommends that travelers have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, as the large number of visitors in the state may disrupt cellular service. Travelers should also bring a portable weather station to stay informed and alerted to any potential severe weather that may occur before, during, or after the Solar Eclipse.  

The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) is the state’s homeland security and preparedness agency. The agency works to identify and lessen the effects of emergencies, disasters and threats to Arkansas by developing effective prevention, preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery actions for all disasters and emergencies.  For additional information, contact ADEM at (501) 683-6700 or visit the website at www.adem.arkansas.gov.

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