Written by Stephen H Goodale
At least 16 people died and dozens more are still missing after heavy rains caused flash flooding overnight near the cities of Caddo Gap and Langley in western Arkansas.The flooding happened shortly after 2 a.m. Friday. As much as 7.5 to 7.75 inches of rain fell in just a few hours near the Albert Pike campground in Caddo Gap, near the Little Missouri and Caddo rivers.At 1:57 a.m. the National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning for Montgomery and Pike counties. Specifically mentioned in the warning was the Albert Pike Campground, which is located in a valley and prone to flooding.The campground was at capacity with 54 campsites in use, and the rural area allowed for limited cell phone service. As a result, the only warning mechanism for most campers would have been a weather radio.The Little Missouri River and Caddo River both rose sharply between 2 a.m. and 5:30 a.m. The Little Missouri River rose at the campground from about 3 feet Thursday night to more than 20 feet early Friday, officials said. The campers had few places to go as the water rose quickly.Emergency officials said it wasn’t the depth of the water, but the speed that swept away tents and vehicles. At its fastest, the Caddo River flowed nearly 23,000 cubic feet per second, and the Little Missouri gushed at approximately 20,000 cubic feet per second.The United States Geological Survey is calling this flood a 100-year event for the Little Missouri River and a 25-year event for the Caddo River.The waters have receded enough for rescuers to start the tedious process of combing the area for survivors. Gov. Mike Beebe activated the National Guard to aid with the search. The Arkansas National Guard is using UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters to search the area for survivors and bodies. Approximately 30 people have been rescued so far.The American Red Cross has set up shelters and checkpoints in the area for residents and campers to check in. Concerned friends and family members can call 501-748-1010 to receive updated information about people still missing in the flooded area.Beebe and President Barack Obama have both issued statements of condolence.”Michelle and I would like to extend heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives during this horrible flash flood,” Obama said.
