Categories: Breaking NewsDisastersNewsWest Memphis, AR

Severe Thunderstorms Cause Power Outages and Bonnaroo Cancellation

Dark storm clouds with lightning over West Memphis cityscape

News Summary

Severe thunderstorms swept through West Memphis, leading to widespread power outages and the cancellation of the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival. Approximately 200 customers were left without power due to a downed power pole. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for continued thunderstorms, potential flooding, and tornado watches across the region. Tennessee’s Governor has declared a state of emergency, and emergency alerts have been issued, advising residents to avoid travel during severe weather conditions.

West Memphis, Arkansas – Severe thunderstorms swept through West Memphis and the surrounding areas on Friday, causing widespread power outages and leading to the cancellation of the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival. Approximately 200 customers in the region were without power Friday afternoon, as reported by West Memphis Utilities. A downed power pole was identified as a primary cause of the outages, prompting utility crews from Jonesboro to assist local teams in restoring electricity. Power is expected to be fully restored by the end of the day.

Residents can expect continued unsettled weather, with thunderstorms predicted to linger into the morning hours and a chance of scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon. The high temperature today is projected to be around 85°F, with winds coming from the WSW at 10 to 15 mph. The National Weather Service has issued a 100% chance of rain throughout the day, with nighttime lows expected to settle around 72°F and winds shifting to the SW at 5 to 10 mph.

The Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival, which was highly anticipated, has been officially canceled due to severe weather conditions. Festival organizers deemed the safety of attendees as paramount amidst the ongoing thunderstorm threats. Additionally, the storm system prompted tornado watches and severe thunderstorm warnings for the broader Memphis area, predicting destructive winds and hail. Emergency alerts regarding flash flooding have also been issued, advising residents to avoid travel unless evacuating from flood-prone zones.

In West Memphis, the storm’s impact extended beyond power outages. Tennessee Emergency Management officials have raised alarm over ongoing severe threats posed by heavy rainfall and potential flooding. Some areas are forecasted to receive up to 15 inches of rain, raising concerns of flash floods and further infrastructural strain. Earlier in the week, power outages had already plagued the region, with nearly 1,000 customers reported without power on Tuesday morning, a reduction from over 6,201 outages earlier that day.

The areas predominantly affected by the Tuesday storms included regions south of Crump Boulevard, north of Norris Road, along Mallory Avenue, and near Interstate 240 and Winchester Road. Entergy, the electric utility company for DeSoto County, also reported additional outages in their service area. Alongside the response to power outages, MLGW is investigating reports of a mysterious gas smell in Collierville, as alerted by Collierville Fire & Rescue.

As the severe weather continues, a series of fatalities and extensive property damage has been reported across the Mid-South region. In response to the impending threats, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has declared a state of emergency. Additionally, President Trump has approved an emergency declaration to aid with disaster relief efforts, allowing for the coordination of resources to impacted areas.

Residents are encouraged to report any power outages or concerns through utility service lines or dedicated applications. The National Weather Service has also issued safety recommendations regarding possible power outages and flood hazards, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and caution during these severe weather events.