Governor Mike Beebe has declared Baxter, Benton, Boone, Carroll, Clay, Crawford, Franklin, Fulton, Greene, Hot Spring, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Johnson, Lawrence, Logan, Madison, Marion, Nevada, Newton, Randolph, Scott, Searcy, Sharp, Stone, Washington Counties state disaster areas due to the damage caused by heavy rains and flooding that began on March 18.

The number of declared counties is expected to increase in the coming days. With flood waters still rising in some areas of the state, full damage assessments will not be possible until those waters recede. Future state assistance will be forthcoming.

This declaration allows for more efficient coordination and support between local and state emergency officials. The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management has made preliminary inquiries toward securing federal disaster support.