January 2025 Winter Weather Reminders and Resources

Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has declared a state of emergency ahead of severe weather that could stretch into the weekend (January 5-13, 2025). People are bracing for an arctic blast that could bring several inches of snow, the chance for ice (especially in the southern part of the state), and some sources are saying there could be a potential for tornadic activity.

With inclement weather being a strong possibility for much of the state, we wanted to take a moment to share a few reminders and resources with our AARP community, including a link to the AARP Disaster Preparedness Page, which covers a wide range of eventualities, from creating a go-kit to how to navigate a disaster with your four-legged friends.

Reminders

• The AARP Minute provides good information about cold weather in this report, including dressing in layers and not loading yourself down with items while trying to navigate icy terrain.  
• The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) shares tips here including to:
  
  • Stay off roads.  
  • Stay indoors and dress warmly.  
  • Prepare for power outages.  
  • User generators outside only.  
  • Listen for emergency information and alerts.  
  • Look for signs of hypothermia and frostbite.  
  • Check on neighbors. 

Additional tips include:

• Fill your medications and do your errands before the storms.  
• Gas your vehicles. 
• Charge electronic devices.  
• Collect candles, matches, and flashlights in case of power outage.  
• Be mindful of portable electric or gas heaters and follow safety recommendations. 
• Check your fireplace for optimal performance and safety.    
• Make sure smoke detectors are in good working order in case you are relying on alternate heat sources during an emergency and review a fire safety plan with others. 
• Download weather apps or bookmark webpages to quickly receive the latest weather news.  

Resources
The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management has information about shelters, food distribution centers, and more.

Entergy is the power company for Arkansas. To report an outage 1-800-9OUTAGE (1-800-968-8243). Entergy also says you can report an outage by:

• Texting OUT to 36778 
• Using the Entergy app 
• Checking the outage map on the Entergy website 
• Signing up for outage alerts via text or email
• Checking the Entergy social media feeds

Local media is reporting the opening of warming centers across the state.
Central Arkansas from THV 11
Northwest Arkansas from KFSM News 5

The National Weather Service provides this handy preparedness checklist that reminds us to have food, disposable items, a portable radio, warm clothing and extra blankets, along with a first aid kit on hand. Their website also has timely weather alerts.

If you must get out, check road conditions on sites such as iDrive Arkansas.

If you need assistance with a recovery effort or need direction on how to move forward, the Arkansas Chapter of the American Red Cross may be able to help.

The safety of our staff and volunteers is paramount. Please check with staff before traversing to the State Office during this weather situation.