Weather
Hurricane Helene Death Toll: 5 Fatalities Confirmed
The death toll from Hurricane Helene continues to rise as the storm’s destructive impact becomes evident. Five fatalities have now been confirmed:
- Two deaths in Wheeler County, Georgia: Two individuals were killed when a tornado destroyed their mobile home.
- Two deaths in Charlotte, North Carolina: Vehicle accidents on wet roads caused by the hurricane resulted in two fatalities.
- One death in Tampa, Florida: A highway sign was blown onto a vehicle on Interstate 4, leading to one death.
As rescue and recovery efforts continue, authorities are working to assess the full extent of the damage caused by Hurricane Helene.
A deadly crash has partially closed Interstate 4 in Tampa as Hurricane Helene continues to batter the Tampa Bay area.
The incident occurred around 7:53 p.m. at mile marker 1, with traffic cameras showing a downed sign and a significant police presence at the scene.
While details about the crash are limited, local officials are urging residents to shelter in place and avoid unnecessary travel on the highway as the Category 4 storm passes through.
The incident further highlights the dangers posed by severe weather conditions and the importance of adhering to safety guidelines during such events.
This is a developing story that will be updated when more information is available.
Weather
Flash Flood Emergency declared for Little Rock, Arkansas
Life-Threatening Flooding Ongoing Across Central Arkansas
LITTLE ROCK, AR — A Flash Flood Emergency has been declared for the Little Rock metro area as a Particularly Dangerous Situation (PDS) continues to unfold across Central Arkansas.
The National Weather Service has issued an urgent warning as catastrophic flooding is either ongoing or imminent in areas including Little Rock, North Little Rock, Conway, Benton, Cabot, and Searcy.
Current Conditions
- Over 7 inches of rain have fallen in some areas today, with Little Rock alone receiving more than 4 inches in a matter of hours.
- Rain gauges across Central Arkansas are reporting between 6 to 10 inches of rainfall from this slow-moving, training line of thunderstorms.
- Up to 15 inches of rainfall is possible in isolated areas by Sunday, which will lead to life-threatening flash flooding and major river flooding.
Impacted Areas
- Low-lying neighborhoods, urban centers, and areas near rivers and creeks are experiencing rapid rises in water levels.
- Numerous flash flood incidents have already been reported, and more than 100 emergency calls related to high water have been logged.
- Major river flooding is expected along the Arkansas, White, and Spring Rivers, with some communities potentially reaching record crest levels.
Infrastructure Impact
- North Hills Boulevard has multiple trees down, including a large tree blocking both lanes in front of The Lakewood House.
- 5 Mile Creek is nearing overflow onto nearby roadways.
- Numerous roads are impassable due to high water, and vehicles have already become stranded.
Weather Threats
- While the severe weather threat has passed for Texarkana, Little River, Sevier, Howard, Pike, Hempstead, Miller, Polk, Montgomery, and Scott counties, flooding remains a major concern.
- Additional tropical downpours are likely, bringing the risk of renewed or worsening flash flooding.
- Areas east and south of Little Rock remain under threat for severe storms, including the potential for tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail.
Public Safety Alerts & What You Must Do:
- DO NOT drive through flooded roads. It only takes six inches of moving water to knock you off your feet and less than two feet to carry away most vehicles.
- If you live near a river, creek, or low-lying area—prepare immediately. Move to higher ground if possible and secure valuables.
- Monitor official weather alerts closely. Follow instructions from local emergency management and the National Weather Service.
- Do not leave your home unless absolutely necessary. Emergency services are stretched thin, and rescue resources should not be diverted for avoidable situations.
This is a life-threatening emergency.
The term Flash Flood Emergency is reserved for only the most severe flooding scenarios. Please take this seriously, stay off the roads, and protect yourself and your family.
For real-time updates, tune in to local weather stations or follow the National Weather Service – Little Rock and Arkansas Division of Emergency Management on social media.