POCAHONTAS, Ark. – The City of Pocahontas issued a public service advisory Monday urging residents in the Robil Addition area on the city’s east side to begin preparing for possible evacuation due to rising water levels.
Emergency management officials said flooding is likely within the next 24 hours and conditions are expected to worsen. The advisory is being issued as a precaution, officials said, to ensure public safety.
Residents are urged to secure important belongings, medications and documents, and to make arrangements for transportation and pets in the event an evacuation order is issued.
The affected area includes all homes and properties located in the Robil Addition area on the east side of Pocahontas.
Emergency shelters are being prepared, and details on locations will be announced via the city’s Facebook page, local radio stations and other official communication channels, officials said.
City leaders noted that water levels could reach or exceed previous major flood events:
At 28 feet, similar flooding occurred in April 2011 when the river crested at 28.47 feet, prompting levee patrols.
At 26.5 feet, widespread flooding occurred in March 2008, including overtopping of levees and flooding along U.S. Highway 67.
At 25 feet, major flooding is likely, with residential evacuations expected and damage to homes and businesses along the Fourche, Black and Current rivers.
Sandbags are being prepared for distribution to affected areas, and residents are advised to monitor updates from the city for pickup information.
For emergency assistance or inquiries, contact the Pocahontas Police Department dispatch at (870) 892-9867.
Mayor Keith Futrell said the city is working to ensure resources are available and residents are kept informed as the situation develops.
“Please do not wait until the last minute,” officials said. “Water levels can rise quickly and unexpectedly. Your safety is our priority.”
SHARE THIS STORY WITH OTHERS:
Discover more from NEA Report
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
When will the people on the East side of Pocahontas has to leave? And how long do we have to leave