The following is a press release from Warren Mayor Gregg Reep’s office:
Warren Mayor R. Gregg Reep has been informed that the state of Arkansas will not declare a disaster for portions of the city of Warren damaged by a severe windstorm in January 2024.
Top photo from the January 2024 storm which destroyed multiple structures.
During the storm, called a tornado by many residents of the Rock Street, George Street and Glover Street neighborhoods, with some damage across the city from west to east, over 20 structures were damaged and several destroyed. There were no fatalities. There was substantial property damage and a number of large trees and limbs down. Electricity was knocked out. One mobile home was overturned.
According to Mayor Reep, the city was not notified of a tornado warning, therefore the local-sirens were not sounded.
City crews cleared the streets and Entergy promptly responded and made electrical repairs. There was some damage to several pump stations which have been repaired.
There have been extra costs to the city budget and many residents have suffered losses. Some have insurance, and some do not.
According to the state, the damage is not sufficient to be declared a disaster. Mayor Reep’s response is, “it is a disaster for the citizens affected.” The city will continue to seek assistance for those in need.
During a press conference held Tuesday, April 2, Warren Mayor Gregg Reep did encourage any resident who’s home suffered damage during the January storm that has not been able to complete repairs to contact his office. They will try to put those in need of assistance in contact with charitable organizers that might be able to provide help, though that is not guaranteed.