On the evening of May 26, 2024, a severe storm system swept through parts of Arkansas, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. At least eight people lost their lives as a result of the storms. Among those affected were Toni and Landon Walker from Rogers and Joseph Wilson from Bentonville.
Toni and Landon's roof was ripped off their house during the storm, leaving them with significant damage to their property. However, they were grateful for each other's company and the fact that they had heeded the warning sirens in their neighborhood and made it to safety.
Joseph Wilson also faced damage when an oak tree fell across part of his house. Both families expressed gratitude for being alive despite the destruction to their properties.
The storm system, which included tornadoes with winds reaching up to 150 miles per hour, affected multiple counties in Arkansas including Benton, Marion, Baxter, and Fulton. Governor Sarah Sanders signed a state of emergency order and authorized funds for recovery efforts.
At least one person was killed in eastern Benton County. Recovery efforts and damage assessments were underway in the affected areas.
Baxter County reported one storm-related death, while Marion County reported two. The total number of deaths related to the storms stood at eight.
The National Weather Service was conducting damage assessments in various counties to determine the extent of the damage caused by the tornadoes. Thousands were left without power as a result of the storms, with Benton County being particularly affected.
Governor Sarah Sanders and other officials held a briefing to discuss relief efforts and community impact. They were joined by Sen. John Boozman, Rep. Steve Womack, Major General Jonathan Stubbs, ADEM Director AJ Gary, Secretary of Public Safety and Director of Arkansas State Police Mike Hagar, and local officials from Benton County.
The storms also left Rogers and other parts of Arkansas unrecognizable. Residents were urged to stay off the roads as much as possible in the affected areas.
