POINSETT COUNTY SHERIFF ANNOUNCES WINTER STORM EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DATE: January 23, 2026
CONTACT: Poinsett County Sheriff Kevin Molder - kevin.molder@poinsettar.gov
POINSETT COUNTY SHERIFF ANNOUNCES WINTER STORM EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN
HARRISBURG, AR - Poinsett County Sheriff Kevin Molder today announced emergency procedures that will be implemented to manage critical needs of the County, municipalities, and citizens as Winter Storm Fern approaches Northeast Arkansas. Governor Sarah Sanders has declared a State of Emergency, activated the National Guard, and provided for additional resources to be available to Arkansans in need. "Poinsett County is bracing for a multi-day event characterized by heavy snow, sleet, and dangerous ice accumulations," Sheriff Kevin Molder said. "High winds combined with ice accumulation create an increased likelihood of power outages and extensive tree damage. The Sheriff's Office senior leadership and Deputies will not rest until this emergency has passed. We will coordinate with the county and city's road departments, state, fire departments, and EMS to ensure that roadways are cleared as quickly as possible. Citizens are encouraged to call (870) 578-2116 to report road blockages or other weather-related issues," Molder said.
A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for Poinsett County from 6:00 PM today, January 23, through 6:00 PM Sunday, January 25. Precipitation will transition from rain to a mix of snow and sleet tonight. Heavy sleet and freezing rain are expected Saturday and Saturday night. Forecasts indicate snow and sleet totals exceeding 3 inches, with significant ice glazing. Temperatures will plummet to the low teens, with wind chill values reaching as low as -6°F.
"The Sheriff's Office will be focused on protecting lives of vulnerable citizens during this time," Molder said. Please call us if you or a neighbor or loved one are vulnerable to the cold, especially if power is lost. We will do all that we can to get people to safety. Cities, churches, and other organizations are organizing warming centers," Molder said.
National Guardsmen have been deployed across the state. Poinsett County will have access to Winter Weather Response Teams equipped with Humvees and specialized communications to assist the Arkansas State Police in rescuing stranded motorists. Arkansas Department of Transportation crews are operating on 24-hour shifts. Strike Teams are currently pretreating major routes, but officials warn that clearing roads will be a difficult effort due to the ice. "Travel could be impossible by Saturday morning. We urge all Poinsett County residents to be where they intend to stay by nightfall today," Molder said.
Please remember to keep all flammable materials at least 3 feet from space heaters. Never use a gas oven or stovetop to heat your home. Charge all electronic devices now. If you lose power, unplug major appliances to prevent damage from power surges when electricity is restored.
"Emergency protocols have been implemented for the Poinsett County Jail to ensure staffing and safety needs. Of course, in the event of an emergency, our new 911 Center will be staffed and backed up by generators. Deputies will be on duty and on call throughout this Winter Storm to respond to calls. We have been through many winter storms, tornadoes, and floods, and our team is prepared to protect and serve the people of Poinsett County through Winter Storm Fern," Molder concluded.
