WARREN, Ark. – In the aftermath of the severe storms that struck Warren, Arkansas on January 12, 2024, Mayor Gregg Reep spoke to Saline River Chronicle Saturday morning about the measures the City is actively engaged in to help cleanup efforts throughout town. He also addressed the preparations underway for the upcoming winter storm forecasted for Sunday, January 14, into Monday, January 15.
Storm Cleanup Efforts: The City of Warren is tirelessly working to restore normalcy following the recent severe storms. Mayor Reep provided an update on the current cleanup initiatives:
- Collaborative efforts with Entergy are underway to restore electricity in outage-affected areas.
- Street crews are diligently working to clear debris from streets and ditches to ensure safe passage.
- City crews, working throughout Saturday, January 13, will continue their efforts into the next week to complete the cleanup process.
- Mayor Reep has been in contact with the Bradley County Office of Emergency Services, exploring the possibility of assistance for local property owners affected by the storms.
- The City has requested the National Weather Service to assess whether the recent storm was caused by straight-line winds or a tornado.
Mayor Reep also noted that the reason no tornado sirens were blown was due to no tornado warning being issued for Bradley County by the National Weather Service.
Preparations for Winter Storm: Mayor Reep outlined the City’s proactive measures to address the predicted winter storm:
- The City is fully prepared to respond to adverse weather conditions, including snow and ice, to maintain passable streets and provide continuous Police and Fire response.
- Special precautions have been taken to ensure the well-being of animals at the Warren Animal Shelter.
- Pet owners are urged to protect their animals, with Warren Animal Control prepared to take legal action against those neglecting proper care.
- Police and Fire Emergency Services will remain fully operational during any weather conditions.
- Garbage collection is scheduled as usual on Monday, with public awareness of any changes due to safety concerns.
- City Hall will be closed on Monday for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday but will resume operations throughout the week, irrespective of weather conditions.
- Citizens are encouraged to safeguard personal property, such as pipes, to minimize damage from the extreme cold.
Mayor Gregg Reep expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of city crews, emergency services, and community members in dealing with the aftermath of the severe storms and emphasized the city’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents during the impending winter weather.