News from the South - Arkansas News Feed

Arkansas governor appeals FEMA denial of disaster declaration from March tornadoes

Published

2 months ago

April 18, 2025

arkansasadvocate.com – Advocate Staff – 2025-04-18 13:51:00

by Advocate Staff, Arkansas Advocate
April 18, 2025

Arkansas formally appealed on Friday the federal government’s denial of funds to aid recovery from March 14-15 storms and tornadoes.

In a letter to President Donald Trump and FEMA Regional Administrator George Robinson, Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders asked the administration to reconsider its rejection of her requests for disaster declarations for individual assistance and public assistance.

“Arkansas communities are still recovering from this spring’s tornadoes, as the sheer magnitude of this event resulted in overwhelming amounts of debris, widespread destruction to homes and businesses, the tragic loss of three lives, and injuries to many others,” Sanders said. “To relieve the burden on these counties, cities, and towns, I am appealing FEMA’s decision to deny Arkansas’ Major Disaster Declaration request.”

Sanders originally sought the major disaster declaration on April 2; FEMA issued its denial on April 11.

Sanders’ letter notes that “without the support of a Major Disaster Declaration, Arkansas will face significant challenges in assuming full responsibility and achieving an effective recovery from this event. I
have determined that the severity and magnitude of these storms exceed the capabilities of the State and affected local governments to respond adequately. As such, supplemental Federal assistance is crucial.”

The state’s request includes Baxter, Stone, Sharp, Hempstead, Independence, Randolph, Nevada, Jackson, Clay, Woodruff, Greene, Hot Spring, Izard and Lawrence counties.

Trump earlier this year called the Federal Emergency Management Agency “a disaster” and suggested it “might go away.” He said states could take care of disaster responses on their own and convened a group to review the agency and recommended changes.

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Arkansas Advocate is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Arkansas Advocate maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Sonny Albarado for questions: info@arkansasadvocate.com.

The post Arkansas governor appeals FEMA denial of disaster declaration from March tornadoes appeared first on arkansasadvocate.com

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News from the South - Arkansas News Feed

Fayetteville Arkansas No Kings Protest

Published

23 hours ago

June 14, 2025

Staff Editor

www.youtube.com – 40/29 News – 2025-06-14 18:51:25

SUMMARY: The Fayetteville, Arkansas “No Kings” protest began at St. Paul’s Church parking lot and marched down a closed Dickson Street to the Upper Ramble. The event featured music, speeches, and chants against leaders who organizers believe place themselves above the law. Part of a nationwide movement, the group emphasized upholding the rule of law and defending democratic values, not targeting any specific president. Attendees carried signs reading “NO KINGS” and “DEMOCRACY FOR ALL.” The gathering concluded with community outreach, voter registration efforts, and collaboration with local groups, as organizers vowed to continue advocating for civic engagement and fair governance.

Fayetteville Arkansas No Kings Protest

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News from the South - Arkansas News Feed

Saturday morning weather

Published

1 day ago

June 14, 2025

Staff Editor

www.youtube.com – 40/29 News – 2025-06-14 10:55:14

SUMMARY: Scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected this weekend across eastern Oklahoma, with the greatest rain chances Saturday afternoon. Some storms could bring localized flooding and gusty winds, particularly in the east. Patchy fog and a mix of sun and clouds start the day, followed by increasing storm activity mid-afternoon. Temperatures should reach the 80s today and Sunday. There may be breaks between rounds of rain, with another round possible late tonight into Sunday morning. This pattern continues into Monday before hotter, drier conditions develop next week. Limited periods of sunshine are expected in between storms.

Meteorologist Damon Shaw had your weekend forecast

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News from the South - Arkansas News Feed

Arkansas protesters plan to join nationwide rallies

Published

2 days ago

June 13, 2025

Staff Editor

www.youtube.com – 40/29 News – 2025-06-13 21:12:50

SUMMARY: Arkansas protesters plan to join nationwide rallies timed with the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary parade in Washington, D.C., emphasizing that democracy is under threat. Tiffany’s director, Gladys, from Fayetteville’s Omni Center, stresses the need to defend democracy amid concerns over President Trump’s administration, which critics view as anti-democratic. University of Arkansas professor Andrew Dowdall compares the movement to past protests, noting public perception hinges on whether demonstrations remain peaceful. However, Washington County Republican Vice Chairman John LaTour criticizes the protests as violent and lawless. Organizers assure a peaceful march Saturday at 2 p.m. in Fayetteville, despite some criticism.