Grubbs Faces Severe Flooding, Voluntary Evacuations Underway

GRUBBS, Ark. (KAIT) – The city of Grubbs is implementing assisted evacuations as floodwaters engulf the area. Heavy rain has caused the Cache River to overflow, resulting in fish swimming across highways.

High water levels prompted Sheriff Russell Brinsfield to advise residents to consider a voluntary evacuation. “If you feel it’s necessary, please leave,” he said. Many areas, particularly around Highway 18 and Skillet Ditch, are reported to be under water, creating hazardous conditions for travelers.

Mayor Candace Miller stated on Friday morning that a levee broke just south of Grubbs. She expressed cautious optimism, saying that the farmland in that location could help relieve some of the pressure on the city. “Some water levels are decreasing; however, we are closely monitoring other areas,” she said.

Grubbs has seen a significant increase in water damage to homes and farmland this week, with many residents facing the potential for further disasters. Mayor Miller noted that crews have already retrieved carp and buffalo from the floodwaters on the highway.

“This is insane that we have to deal with this all the time,” Miller added, emphasizing the unexpected nature of the flooding. She described the flooding situation as a “monster” that could change at any moment. “You can see water coming from several of our breaks, and it’s got a heck of a flow. If this would have come to Grubbs, we would have definitely been destroyed.”

Local leaders are urging travelers to avoid Highway 37, located just north of Grubbs, due to unsafe conditions. The state approved assisted evacuations for the city on Wednesday to alleviate some of the stress from flooding.

The community is organizing a church service and potluck on Sunday, April 20, at 11 a.m. in the school cafeteria, aiming to foster resilience amid the crisis. Mayor Miller requests that evacuees keep her informed of their status to help with community planning.

For more updates and details on the worsening flooding in Grubbs, residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets.