Little Rock Continues Tornado Recovery Efforts

FEMA administrator announces federal disaster aid during visit to City

LITTLE ROCK – Mayor Frank Scott Jr. today hosted FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell to survey neighborhoods hit by Friday’s tornado, as Administrator Criswell announced federal disaster assistance will be made available to affected individuals and municipalities.

President Joe Biden authorized FEMA to provide financial aid to cover temporary housing, repairs and related recovery costs to individuals. The State and local governments in Pulaski, Lonoke and Cross counties are also eligible for assistance with debris removal and emergency efforts.

“The phenomenal response to this catastrophic event started with the courageous and capable efforts of our first responders, and it has continued with the help of countless city workers, friends, families and volunteers,” Mayor Scott said. “We’re humbled by the outpouring of support for our city, and we’re grateful to the President and FEMA for the quick action to open up disaster assistance to our residents.”

Mayor Scott thanked Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders for requesting federal assistance and for activating the National Guard to help in response and recovery.

An estimated 2,983 structures in Little Rock were impacted by the tornado, which tore a 6.54-mile path through west Little Rock. The National Weather Service rated the tornado as an EF3 with winds of up to 165 mph. The City is collecting data to assess the status of property damage throughout Little Rock. Residents are encouraged to submit information about damage sustained at the following link: www.tinyurl.com/lrdamage.

About 50 injuries were reported in Little Rock, with no known fatalities.

Sunday afternoon, about 13,000 Entergy customers in Little Rock remained without power.

As the City continues to recover from the storm, Mayor Scott reminded individuals about how they can help:

• Make tax-deductible donations to the Little Rock Cares fund. Donate online at www.littlerock.gov. All donations will be directed to support those impacted by the storm.
• Volunteer to help with recovery and cleanup through www.littlerock.gov/volunteer. As of Sunday, nearly 500 people had signed up to volunteer.
• Donate water and nonperishable food items at the City’s donation drop-off point, 7000 Murray Ave. Donations are accepted daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The City, in partnership with a number of community organizations, will open its Family Assistance Center on Monday to facilitate resources and services for those impacted by the tornado. Meals and supplies can be picked up at the center. A number of services are also available. FEMA will have a presence at the center for individuals seeking assistance.

The Center is at 315 N. Shackleford Road, and it will be open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

According to FEMA, residents or businesses who sustained damages can apply for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling (800) 621-FEMA.