Pine Bluff, Arkansas – The City of Pine Bluff is urging residents to stay alert and prepare now as winter weather could move into the area this weekend, bringing the threat of freezing conditions, difficult travel, and possible power issues. City leaders said they are watching forecasts closely and taking steps ahead of time to reduce risks and keep the public safe as temperatures drop.
In an update to the community, the city stressed that public safety is the main focus while crews work behind the scenes to get ready for whatever the storm may bring. The Pine Bluff Street Department, working alongside the Arkansas Department of Transportation, has already taken action by pre-treating both city streets and state roadways. Officials said the work will continue as needed to help prevent slick conditions and improve travel safety.
At the same time, Entergy Arkansas has prepared for the possibility of outages. The company has assembled crews and remains on standby in case power lines are damaged or electricity is interrupted during the storm. Residents who experience outages or notice damaged lines are encouraged to report problems quickly. To report power outages, Entergy may be reached at 1-800-968-8243.
Emergency Services will remain operational, the city said, meaning police, fire, and other essential responders will continue to operate during the storm.
Warming Centers and Emergency Alerts Available for Residents
For those who may need a safe and warm place to go, Pine Bluff has identified warming centers that will be open during the winter weather event.
One location is The Opportunity House, located at 1305 East 6th Avenue, which will be OPEN | 6 PM – UNTIL. Residents can contact the facility at 870-569-3130 or by email at [email protected]
Another warming center is Common Ground Ministries, located at 7634 Camden Cutoff Road, which will be OPEN | 2 PM – UNTIL. For assistance, residents can contact Ronnie Dillion at 747-786-4399 or Willie Nelson at 870-592-7523.
The city is also encouraging people to sign up for local text alerts so they can receive important updates during the storm. To enroll, residents should:
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Text PBALERTS to 91896
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Reply YES when the confirmation message arrives
The city said residents who sign up can receive alerts on community events, emergency alerts, and other city information, which can be especially important during severe weather when conditions may change quickly.
Practical Steps to Prepare Before, During, and After the Freeze
Officials also shared several safety tips meant to help residents protect their homes and avoid preventable damage.
Before freezing weather arrives, the city is urging residents to protect water pipes by insulating exposed pipes, disconnecting hoses, and covering outdoor faucets. People are also encouraged to know where the main water shutoff is located in case a pipe freezes or bursts. Sealing gaps around pipes is another recommended step, since cold air can move through cracks and cause pipes to freeze faster than expected.
Residents are also being told to prepare for possible power issues. The city warned people to avoid downed power lines and to use caution around any electrical hazards. Anyone who owns a generator should test it before using it, ensuring it is working properly before a storm creates an emergency situation.
During freezing conditions and snow, residents should consider letting faucets drip slightly if pipes are prone to freezing. Another helpful step is opening the cabinet door under sinks located on exterior walls, allowing warmer air to circulate around pipes. If a pipe freezes or bursts, the city advises residents to contact a licensed plumber for assistance.
Officials also emphasized the danger of power lines during winter storms, especially lines that are sagging or coated in ice. Residents are warned to stay clear of sagging or icy power lines and never touch downed power lines, since they should always be treated as live and dangerous. If downed lines are seen or a power outage occurs, residents should call Entergy at 1-800-968-8243.
After the weather clears, residents are encouraged to check for water damage such as leaks, water stains, or damp ceilings. If a pipe froze, it should be thawed slowly using warm air, and residents are warned not to use open flames. If the water was shut off, it should be turned back on gradually. People should also check their electrical panel for tipped breakers and reset breakers carefully, one at a time.
For emergencies, residents are reminded to call 911.
