Severe weather swept through Arkansas on April 2, 2025, bringing with it multiple tornado warnings and severe thunderstorms that impacted various regions across the state. The National Weather Service (NWS) reported that a tornado warning was in effect for southeastern Craighead County and Poinsett County until 7 p.m., with a particularly dangerous situation unfolding as confirmed tornadoes were spotted.
At 6:08 p.m., a large and extremely dangerous tornado was identified near Waldenburg, approximately nine miles southwest of Harrisburg, moving northeast at 40 mph. The NWS warned residents to take immediate cover, stating, "A large, extremely dangerous and potentially deadly tornado is on the ground. To protect your life, TAKE COVER NOW!" This warning was echoed throughout the evening as more tornadoes emerged.
By 6:24 p.m., another confirmed tornado was reported over Greenfield, moving northeast at 40 mph, further escalating the situation. The NWS issued multiple updates, with warnings extending across various counties, including Clay, Craighead, and Mississippi. By 7:11 p.m., power outages surged to 37,589 statewide, with the majority concentrated in Craighead County.
As the evening progressed, tornado emergencies were declared for Lake City and Monette. At 6:39 p.m., a confirmed large and destructive tornado was located over Lake City, prompting immediate action from emergency services. At 6:50 p.m., another tornado emergency was declared for Monette, where spotters reported a violent cone tornado passing just west of the town.
By 7:29 p.m., Highway 18/135 in Lake City and Monette was completely shut down due to fallen power lines, houses, and electric poles obstructing the roads. Residents were advised to avoid the area as emergency crews worked to clear the debris.
Despite the cancellation of the tornado warning for south central Greene County, Craighead County, western Poinsett County, northwestern Mississippi County, and northwestern Cross County at 7:37 p.m., a severe thunderstorm warning remained in effect due to the likelihood of large hail and damaging winds. The area was still under a tornado watch until midnight.
Throughout the day, the NWS had issued a flood watch for Craighead County and other Northeast Arkansas counties, anticipating rainfall amounts that could exceed eight inches, with some areas possibly receiving up to 15 inches. This prompted warnings of generational flooding, with creeks and streams at risk of overflowing their banks.
As the storms progressed into the early hours of April 3, 2025, Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders addressed the situation on social media, stating, "We have reports of storm and tornado damage from around the state. We have emergency personnel on the ground to help anyone who has been injured, but these storms aren’t finished yet. Stay informed and most importantly, stay safe!"
Power outages continued to rise as the storms moved through, with reports indicating over 34,197 outages by 9:49 p.m. on April 2, 2025. The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management confirmed that tornadoes were on the ground, and emergency teams were mobilized to assist affected areas.
The severe weather caused significant disruptions, with multiple roads closed due to fallen debris and hazardous conditions. The NWS emphasized the importance of heeding warnings and taking shelter, especially for those in mobile homes or vehicles.
As the situation unfolded, meteorologists monitored the storms closely, with tornado warnings issued for various counties including Independence and Jackson, with paths directed toward Newport and Diaz areas. The severe thunderstorm warnings also affected Pulaski County, where residents were advised to stay alert.
By midnight on April 3, 2025, the total number of power outages had reached 26,410 statewide, as the severe weather continued to pose threats across the region. Residents were reminded to avoid flooded areas and to heed warnings from local authorities.
The NWS will continue to provide updates as the situation develops, and residents are encouraged to stay tuned to local news outlets for real-time information. As the storms move through, the safety of the public remains the top priority for emergency management teams.
In conclusion, the severe weather on April 2, 2025, has highlighted the potential dangers of tornadoes and flooding in Arkansas. With emergency teams deployed and ongoing monitoring of the situation, residents are urged to remain vigilant and prepared as the storms continue to pass through the state.
