State of emergency declared in Arkansas ahead of solar eclipse

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LITTLE ROCK, Arkansas, April 7: In anticipation of the upcoming solar eclipse, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has declared a state of emergency, as announced in a press release issued on Friday.

The declaration comes with the release of funds from the Response and Recovery Fund, aimed at facilitating commercial carriers in transporting essential goods to customers across the state during the eclipse period.

Governor Sanders emphasized the importance of ensuring the availability of vital items during this time, listing groceries, pharmacy items, medical equipment, goods, commodities, fuel, poultry, livestock, and feed among the essential items covered by the order.

Expressing caution over potential traffic challenges, particularly on Arkansas dams and bridges, the Army Corps of Engineers has issued advisories to mitigate risks during the eclipse event.

“This decision is made out of an abundance of caution, considering the expected influx of visitors to Arkansas, which may lead to logistical challenges,” Governor Sanders stated in the release. “Our priority is to ensure both Arkansans and visitors have a positive experience and are encouraged to return.”

A total of $100,000 will be allocated from the fund to address program and administrative costs associated with managing the emergency response efforts. The Arkansas Division of Emergency Management will oversee the allocation and utilization of these funds.

The state of emergency will remain in effect until April 10, providing a framework for coordinated response efforts to address any unforeseen challenges that may arise during the eclipse period.

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