Hurricane Laura has sights on Texarkana region | Officials warn public to prepare for the worst, say wind could reach 90 mph

This satellite image released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shows Tropical Storm Laura in the North Atlantic Ocean, Friday, Aug. 21, 2020. Laura formed Friday in the eastern Caribbean and forecasters said it poses a potential hurricane threat to Florida and the U.S. Gulf Coast. A second storm also may hit the U.S. after running into Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. (NOAA via AP)
This satellite image released by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) shows Tropical Storm Laura in the North Atlantic Ocean, Friday, Aug. 21, 2020. Laura formed Friday in the eastern Caribbean and forecasters said it poses a potential hurricane threat to Florida and the U.S. Gulf Coast. A second storm also may hit the U.S. after running into Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. (NOAA via AP)

 

TEXARKANA - The full impact of the tropical storm from Hurricane Laura is expected in Texarkana thisafternoon. Highs winds and flash flooding are the primary dangers with isolated tornadoes possible.

Hurricane Laura has been upgraded to a Category 4 hurricane and is expected to lift north over this region sometime this morning or afternoon - but most likely this afternoon - said Miller County Office of Emergency Management Director Joe Bennett.

A tropical storm warning is in effect until 7 p.m..

Bennett has been in contact with the National Weather Service and meteorologist believe this area could have 20 mph winds by 7 a.m. - and could increase to 55 mph by 5 p.m. and possibly to 68 mph by 10 p.m.

"We could see 50 to 90 mph winds in the southern portions of our area with localized flash flooding," Bennett said.

Today's outburst could drop 4 to 6 inches of rain on the region. A flash flooding watch is in effect today and through the night until 7 a.m. Friday. Portions of Southwest Arkansas are running 5 to 10 inches above average rainfall and flash flooding is a concern, in part, because the ground is already soused.

Because root bases are saturated, high and sustained winds provides a greater potential to topple trees, Bennett said.

His office urges residents to make plans now for family and friends who need help and not wait until the last minute.

"Please use common sense and do not wait until the last minute," he said.

"First responders can't be everywhere at the same time in the event of a disaster so take the steps now to shelter in a secure location."

Late Wednesday afternoon, Bowie County Judge Bobby Howell and Texarkana, Texas, Mayor Bob Bruggeman issued a disaster proclamation declaring a local state of disaster for Bowie County and the City of Texarkana, Texas.

The NWS urges residents to be cautious when driving and pay attention to weather watches and warnings when not.

Some of the ramifications of this weather event include roof and shingle damage, downed branches, uprooted trees, power and communication outages, roads blocked by water or downed trees. NWS recommends residents make plans to be at a safe location - before the advent of strong winds or flooding.

Officials also urge those who live in flood-prone areas to relocate to higher ground and never drive through flooded roads. If you dwell in a place particularly vulnerable to high winds - such as near large trees, or in a manufactured home, consider seeking shelter elsewhere in advance of the storm.

And, if you have one, keep your cell phone charged, officials advise.

In addition to Red Cross shelters, the LifeHouse Church on East Street in Texarkana is open, as is Fouke First Baptist Church in Fouke, Arkansas.

(For related information, visit weather.gov online.).

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