Local News
Major damage reported after large tornado touched down in Lake City, Arkansas
A powerful wedge tornado struck Lake City, Arkansas, causing significant damage as it moved through the area.
The tornado, which was described as large and violent, was captured on video.
Meteorologists estimate that the storm may have reached EF3 or higher intensity based on early assessments.
The Lake City tornado was part of a broader, large-scale tornado outbreak affecting the Ohio, Tennessee, and Mississippi River Valleys.
Video of a strong tornado in Lake City Arkansas this evening. VIOLENT TORNADO NEAR LAKE CITY, ARKANSAS.
— News Channel3 Now (@newschannel3now) April 3, 2025
This tornado has moved into the Missouri bootheel and is no longer a threat.
Remain weather aware!https://t.co/OM2o2IYUtA pic.twitter.com/v46h2Cq2vY
As storms intensified throughout the evening, multiple tornadoes were reported across Arkansas and Illinois, with the system continuing to track eastward toward neighboring states, including Kentucky.
At the peak of the outbreak, 25 active tornado warnings were in effect from Louisiana to Indiana.
Meteorologists and storm chasers have described the situation as extremely dangerous, urging residents to stay vigilant and monitor emergency updates.
Authorities have confirmed significant damage in and around Lake City, though a full assessment is still underway.
As a result of the destruction, Highway 18 west of Lake City to Monette has been shut down, and officials are advising the public to avoid the area.
Images shared by storm chasers, including Connor Croff, depict widespread devastation, with reports of homes and infrastructure severely impacted.
Emergency crews are responding to affected areas, and local officials continue to assess the full extent of the damage.
As the storm moves into the Missouri Bootheel, it is no longer considered a threat to Lake City.
However, forecasters are urging residents in the path of these storms to remain weather-aware as the outbreak continues.
Authorities are urging residents in affected regions to take all tornado warnings seriously and seek shelter immediately if conditions worsen.
This remains an ongoing severe weather event with the potential for further destructive tornadoes as storms continue to track eastward.
Our thoughts are with those affected by this devastating storm.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.