Over the weekend of March 15-16, 2025, Arkansas faced a severe weather outbreak resulting in a series of destructive tornadoes, claiming lives and leaving behind devastating destruction across several communities. Among the hardest-hit areas was Paragould, where a powerful EF-2 tornado crashed through the neighborhoods, causing damages to about 160 homes just under a year after a previous tornado struck.
Paragould's latest tornado, classified as an EF-2 and featuring winds reaching 135 mph, struck on the same street where residents had begun to recover from the destruction of an EF-1 tornado in late May 2024. This recent storm was part of a wider tornado outbreak across the South, as forecasters confirmed a total of 52 tornadoes during the same period. "The level of destruction has left many people in shock; we're just starting to comprehend what this means for our community," noted Paragould Mayor Mike D. Jones.
Farther afield, an EF-3 tornado wreaked havoc in Independence County, resulting in the tragic deaths of three residents. According to the county coroner, the victims included two sisters, Ellen Light and Norma Mobley, whose home on Claxton Loop was destroyed, and 81-year-old Evelyn Ginn. As search and rescue operations continued, dozens of others suffered injuries, with reports indicating that 32 people were hurt during the storms.
Witness accounts from various communities revealed harrowing experiences. In Missouri, for instance, 13 individuals found refuge in a Burger King restroom as an EF-2 tornado approached; miraculously, all emerged unscathed even as the tornado wrecked the fast-food outlet and flipped over several semi-trucks nearby. As reports of damages poured in, at least 33 fatalities were confirmed related to the massive system of tornadoes that spread across multiple states.
The destructive EF-3 tornado in Independence County formed at 10:16 p.m. on Friday, March 14, 2025, according to the National Weather Service. Its peak winds were estimated at 165 mph, and it traveled a path of 14.5 miles before lifting at 10:48 p.m. Numerous structures, including homes, churches, and vehicles, were severely impacted. As reports tallied, over 43 structures in Jackson County experienced varying degrees of damage, prompting officials to declare a state of emergency.
In a more localized incident, on the same night, a mighty EF-4 tornado touched down briefly in Independence County near Departee, demonstrating the ferocity of the storms with winds reaching up to 190 mph. The state's emergency management office reported that few tornadoes exceed this strength, with only about 2% of all tornadoes categorized as EF-4 or above. This storm tore through countless buildings and hurled vehicles, severely impacting the community.
Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders addressed the public, emphasizing the need for cooperation in recovery efforts. “This is not going to be a quick recovery; it will take time,” she said. The governor declared a state of emergency, enabling the release of $250,000 from a disaster relief fund, and confirmed that Arkansas State Police and National Guard units had been mobilized to assist affected communities. “We will take care of the people first and the paperwork second,” she emphasized, reflecting the urgency of the situation.
The humanitarian response was immediate and heartening, as local communities banded together to support those affected. Diaz City Hall became a hub for donations and support. Community leaders reported overwhelming offers of help, with people bringing basic necessities, supplies, and equipment for recovery efforts. “We’re so blessed that we’ve got a community that comes together to help each other,” said Jackson County Judge Jeff Phillips.
One resident, Mike Jones, whose farm in Macks was razed, described the impact of the storm and the support he had received. "I lived in their old house," he recounted, referring to his family farm that had been a part of their heritage since 1938. Although four houses on his property were destroyed, he was grateful there were no life-threatening injuries. “The most blessful thing is seeing all these people here,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of unity during these trying times.
The EF-4 tornado’s path length extended over 28.8 miles and it may have lifted at approximately 9:55 p.m., exhibiting the incredible power such storms can wield. As the storm's aftereffects continue to unfold, many in Arkansas are grappling with the physical and emotional scars left behind.
Despite the chaos and loss, stories of hope emerged amidst the rubble. From survivors sheltering in bathtubs to communities rallying to aid one another, Arkansas residents are coming together, exhibiting resilience in the face of adversity. As residents and officials vow to rebuild, they face a long road ahead, supported by one another and their shared hope of recovery.
