News
Area utilities preparing for winter storms, frigid temps
LITTLE ROCK – Summit Utilities (Summit) is reminding customers to prepare for the freezing temperatures and winter precipitation expected to impact Arkansas this week. As part of our commitment to providing reliable, safe natural gas service, our team works year-round to maintain infrastructure, replace pipelines, and monitor systems to ensure everything runs smoothly.
“With the temperatures dropping and the potential for winter storms in Arkansas, Summit encourages our customers to take proactive measures to stay warm and stay safe,” said Fred Kirkwood, SVP & Chief Customer Experience Officer. “If you have questions about your natural gas service or bill, our customer service team is available to help you navigate any challenges the winter season may bring.”
To stay safe and warm during the expected winter weather, follow these important tips:
- Clear snow and ice around outdoor vents, meters, and flues to prevent blockages. Use a broom, not a shovel, to gently remove snow around gas equipment and avoid causing damage.
- Check proper ventilation in enclosed spaces and never use gas ovens or stovetops as a primary heat source.
- Install carbon monoxide detectors in key areas of your home and test the batteries regularly. If you suspect carbon monoxide exposure (headache, dizziness, nausea), leave your home immediately and call emergency services.
- Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as blankets, flashlights, non-perishable food, and necessary medications.
- Watch for gas leaks and familiarize yourself with the smell of natural gas (similar to rotten eggs). If you detect this odor, avoid using electronic devices, including phones or light switches. Leave the area on foot immediately and call 911 from a safe location.
For more winter weather safety tips, visit summitutilities.com/safety/natural-gas-safety.
Summit also offers energy-saving tips to help reduce natural gas bills during the winter months:
- Lower your thermostat by a few degrees, particularly when you’re away from home for extended periods.
- Clear space around vents to allow warm air to circulate freely.
- Close dampers on unused fireplaces and keep garage doors closed to retain warm air inside.
- Insulate around windows and doors to prevent heat loss and keep warmth in.
- Use sunlight to your advantage by opening curtains on south-facing windows during the day and closing them at night to minimize cold air drafts.
These simple steps can help conserve energy, maintain comfort, and potentially save you money throughout the winter. For more information, visit summitutilities.com/ready-for-winter.
If you’re having issues paying your bill, Summit is here to help. Summit offers payment plans, Summit Heating Assistance Fund, and can assist with finding potential energy assistance programs. Please visit our Payment Assistance page for more details.
LITTLE ROCK – In anticipation of severe winter weather expected to impact Arkansas on January 9, 2025, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has issued Executive Order 25-01, declaring a state of emergency and allocating $150,000 from the Governor’s Disaster Response and Recovery Fund. This proactive measure aims to address potential dangers, hardships, and property damage caused by the approaching storm.
Emergency Funding and Assistance
The funds will be managed by the Arkansas Division of Emergency Management and can be used for both program and administrative costs to aid recovery efforts. The declaration emphasizes the potential for significant impacts on citizens and public infrastructure across the state, highlighting the need for supplemental assistance to local governments and communities.
Winter Weather Threat
According to the National Weather Service, the incoming winter storm is expected to bring heavy snow, freezing rain, and dangerous ice accumulations, creating hazardous travel conditions and potential power outages. The emergency declaration underscores the seriousness of the threat and prepares state resources to respond swiftly.
Governor’s Statement
“Severe winter weather poses a serious threat to the safety and well-being of Arkansans, as well as to public property throughout our state,” Governor Sanders stated. “This emergency declaration ensures we are ready to provide critical support where it is needed most.”
Preparedness Measures
The declaration follows warnings from meteorologists and emergency management agencies urging residents to prepare for the storm by stocking up on essential supplies, avoiding unnecessary travel, and staying informed about road conditions and weather updates.
This state of emergency enables rapid mobilization of resources to protect lives and property as Arkansas braces for potentially devastating winter weather.
LITTLE ROCK – A major winter storm is impacting Arkansas and nearby regions, bringing significant snowfall and ice accumulations. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Warning in effect until noon on Friday, January 10, 2025, as the storm continues to create hazardous travel conditions and power outage risks.
Snow and Ice Forecast
Northern, western, and central parts of Arkansas, including the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains, are expected to receive the highest snow accumulations. Forecasts predict additional snow totals of up to 5 inches, with ice accumulations of around one-tenth of an inch in affected areas. In southern Arkansas, freezing rain has caused ice totals to increase, with some areas facing up to a quarter-inch of ice.
Impacted Areas
The storm is affecting portions of south-central and southwest Arkansas, northwest Louisiana, southeast Oklahoma, and northeast Texas. Heavy mixed precipitation, including snow and freezing rain, is creating slick and hazardous roadways, particularly on bridges and overpasses.
Timing and Impacts
The worst of the ice risk is expected Thursday night, while snow continues into Friday morning. Strong winds combined with the weight of snow and ice on tree limbs could lead to sporadic power outages. The hazardous conditions may significantly impact the Friday morning commute.
Precautionary Measures
Authorities are urging residents to delay all travel if possible. If travel is absolutely necessary, drivers should carry emergency supplies such as flashlights, food, and water, and exercise extreme caution. The NWS advises winterizing vehicles and preparing for sudden changes in visibility and road conditions.
Residents are also reminded to monitor the latest road conditions by dialing 511 and to stay updated on weather forecasts as conditions evolve.
10:30 PM UPDATE
Statewide
All Arkansas state government offices are closed Thursday and Friday.
El Dorado
The El Dorado School District will dismiss classes early at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, and will be closed on Friday, January 10th. The district urges everyone to prioritize safety during the anticipated weather conditions.
The Boys and Girls Club of Union County will be closed on Thursday.
Westside Christian School
Westside Christian School will dismiss classes early at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, and will be closed on Friday, January 10th.
Bravo Dance Centre
All classes for the remainder of the week have been cancelled. Classes will resume on Monday, January 13th.
Camden Fairview
The Camden Fairview School District has announced that all classes will be canceled on Thursday, January 9, and Friday, January 10, due to expected severe weather conditions. The decision was made to prioritize safety, with concerns about hazardous road conditions during afternoon dismissals.
All district events scheduled for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday have also been canceled. Updates regarding rescheduled events are already being shared, including the following:
- Basketball games originally scheduled for January 9 and 10 will now take place at the CFHS Gym on Tuesday, January 21, with start times to be announced.
- The Ivory Intermediate Spelling Bee will now be held on Wednesday, January 15, with 5th grade at 8:20 AM and 4th grade at 9:30 AM.
Thanks to five built-in inclement weather days in the school calendar, students will not need to make up the missed days. The district will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates.
CFSD employees are advised to check their work emails for updates. The district encourages everyone to stay safe and warm.
Parkers Chapel
The Parkers Chapel School District will dismiss early at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, due to anticipated weather conditions. Schools will remain closed on Friday, January 10.
Smackover
The Smackover-Norphlet School District will dismiss classes early at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, due to forecasted inclement weather and potentially hazardous road conditions. Buses will begin lining up at 12:30 p.m., and all after-school preschool classes are canceled.
Classes and all extracurricular activities are also canceled for Friday, January 10. The basketball game against Centerpoint has been rescheduled for Monday, January 13. District officials emphasized that the safety of students, staff, and the community remains their top priority.
Magnolia
The Magnolia School District will dismiss classes early at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, 2025, due to anticipated inclement weather. While officials believe it is unlikely schools will be open on Friday, a final decision will be made after assessing actual weather conditions. The district will continue to monitor updates and communicate any changes.
Hampton
Due to the threat of inclement weather Hampton Schools will be closed Thursday, January 9, 2025. The decision was made for the safety and the best educational outcomes for students and staff.
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