West Memphis reacts to brutal blizzard

Second round of winter weather predicted

By DON WILBURN

donaldfwilburn@gmail.com

Crittenden County residents are still in the midst of grappling with the aftereffects of a fierce winter storm that hit the region on Sunday and left its mark on the community. As temperatures continue to drop at night throughout the week, the initial melting of snow followed by refreezing has presented a significant challenge for local authorities in maintaining safe road conditions, but even as temperatures warm on Thursday, authorities advise that the city may not be out of the woods just yet.

The winter storm, which blanketed the entire area in a thick layer of at least six inches of snow, initially brought the delight of a picturesque winter wonderland.

See WINTER, page A3

A photo of Missouri Street just as the first flurries began to fall on Sunday afternoon. Traffic was scarce as road conditions deteriorated and temperatures plummeted.

Photo by Don Wilburn

Near white-out conditions on Southland Drive on Monday morning. After 6 inches of snow fell, Crittenden County could easily be confused for Siberia.

Photo by Don Wilburn WINTER

From page A1

However, as the sun began to fade and the mercury plummeted, the melted snow rapidly turned into treacherous ice, posing hazards for motorists and pedestrians alike.

To combat the freezing conditions, the City of West Memphis has mobilized its resources, employing its salt trucks to de-ice roads and intersections. These salt trucks have been working around the clock to apply salt to the roadways, aiding in the prevention of further icing.

“We are doing everything we can to ensure the safety of our residents during these challenging conditions,” said Emergency Management Director for the City of West Memphis DeWayne Rose, “Our dedicated road crews have been working tirelessly to spread salt and monitor the roads, but we urge all residents to exercise caution and limit their travel unless absolutely necessary.”

ARDOT, responsible for the main thoroughfares in West Memphis, Missouri and Broadway have been using a relatively new “brine solution” as opposed to traditional rock salt. The brine is a 23 percent salt solution compared with traditional salt that is 100 percent solid salt. With liquids, it takes 40 gallons per lane mile compared with 250 pounds of rock salt per lane mile to clear a lane. Liquid salt applied ahead of the storm can be put down well ahead of time and even if it dries, as snow and ice start to form on the road, the brine activates and prevents snow and ice from bonding to the pavement. The amount of salt needed is reduced by 70 percent or more when switching to a brine.

“We never know when such a powerful winter storm will hit, but when it does, we want to be ready,” said West Memphis Mayor Marco Mc-Clendon. “Our main priority is to ensure the safety of our residents and to keep the roads as safe as possible.”

Despite these efforts, the frigid temperatures during the nights have posed a persistent problem as melted snow refreezes, creating black ice on roads and increasing the likelihood of accidents. Authorities are urging residents to be extra vigilant while driving, maintaining lower speeds and allowing for increased braking distances. Additionally, pedestrians are advised to walk with caution and use designated walkways to minimize the risk of slips and falls.

Looking ahead, one of the potential challenges West Memphis may face is the melting snow and subsequent flooding. With warmer temperatures predicted for next week, the accumulated snow will gradually turn into water, putting a strain on local drainage systems. In response to this concern, the city has already put in place contingency plans and is prepared to deploy pumps to control any potential flooding.

“In our efforts to address potential flood concerns, we have been closely monitoring drainage systems and assessing their capacity,” said a spokesperson for the City of West Memphis. “We have additional pumps on standby to mitigate flooding and minimize any damage that may occur due to the melting snow.”

While temperatures are expected to be above freezing on Thursday causing initial melting it may only be a temporary respite as round two is expected to move in swiftly on Friday with a high chance of freezing rain and continue well into the weekend. City officials warn that many times the second round may be even more dangerous than the first due to much of the melted snow freezing solid. Temperatures are expected to finally warm up beginning on Monday. Residents are advised to remain vigilant throughout the weekend.

Despite the relentless wintry conditions, the community of West Memphis remains resilient. Local authorities and residents alike are working together to navigate the challenges posed by the winter storm. As the temperatures continue to drop at night, West Memphis is prepared to tackle the icy roads head-on and aptly respond to any potential flooding, ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.

Time will soon tell whether this memorable winter storm leaves behind a picturesque wonderland or simply a lingering challenge for the people of West Memphis. In the face of adversity, one thing remains certain – unity prevails, and West Memphis stands strong.