All City of Little Rock offices will close at 1 p.m. today as the city braces for the impact of Hurricane Laura which is expected to produce 4 to 6 inches of rain and tropical storm force winds of 25 to 40 miles per hour.

Yard waste collection will be delayed as crews have been reassigned to focus on picking up trash and recycling so residents can move carts from streets and sidewalks ahead of the storm event.

The City of Little Rock Emergency Management Division reminds drivers to “Turn Around. Don’t Drown” during the storm. As a precaution, the City will close the gates at Boyle Park and Kanis Park where street crossings often flood during major rainfall.

“People underestimate the force and power of water. Many of the deaths occur in cars swept downstream. Many of these drownings are preventable,” said Emergency Management Administrator Matt Burks. “A mere 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars and just 2 feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks.”

It is NEVER safe to drive or walk into flood water, Burks said.

About the City of Little Rock’s Response to COVID-19
Residents may visit LittleRock.gov/covid19 for all information about the City’s efforts related to COVID-19, including the newly created Small Business Emergency Assistance Program. Volunteers are needed to assist with the grab-and-go feeding efforts for vulnerable populations, including students and seniors. Sign up at LittleRock.gov/volunteer. The Little Rock Cares Emergency Relief Fund benefits the grab-and-go feeding effort and the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE). Donations of PPE are also accepted. Donate here or visit LittleRock.gov/covid19 and click on the Little Rock Cares Emergency Relief Fund button. Follow the City of Little Rock on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @CityLittleRock.