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January 27, 2026
NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management’s State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) remains activated as response and recovery efforts continue following the recent winter storm that moved through Arkansas late last week.
The SEOC has confirmed two fatalities. According to the Arkansas State Police (ASP), a 40-year-old man died in an ATV accident in Columbia County, east of Magnolia. Additionally, the SEOC has confirmed the death of a 17-year-old male in Saline County involving an ATV. Nine injuries have also been reported — three in Columbia County, one in Cleburne County, one in Hempstead County, and four in Saline County.
A total of 30 counties declared a local emergency for this winter weather event in anticipation of impacts from snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. The SEOC continues coordinating with county emergency managers, local officials, and partner agencies to assess damage, support response operations, and prioritize public safety.
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture reports that an estimated 175 poultry houses have been damaged or destroyed during the winter weather event.
Additional reports include damage to marinas, as well as commercial and government structures. ADEM staff are compiling damage assessments from across the state and coordinating with affected counties to verify impacts and determine next steps for potential disaster assistance.
Coordination and Public Safety
The SEOC continues to coordinate with the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), Arkansas State Police (ASP), Arkansas Department of Health, and local emergency management offices to address immediate hazards. Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and report structural damage to county officials.
Updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management (ADEM) is the state's homeland security and preparedness agency. The agency works to identify and lessen the effects of emergencies, disasters and threats to Arkansas by developing effective prevention, preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery actions for all disasters and emergencies.
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