State Agencies Aiding Response To Arkansas Flooding

Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson says multiple state agencies are involved in the response to flooding that's affecting parts of the state.

So far, Hutchinson has issued disaster declarations for 32 of the state's 75 counties following the severe storms and flooding. Hutchinson said in a statement Thursday that the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management is monitoring the flooding around-the-clock and holding daily conference calls with local leaders.

National Guard units have been staged to help place sand bags in some areas and help with high water transportation. Arkansas State Police troopers are providing additional patrols in evacuated areas, while state inmates are helping place sand bags as well.

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is helping with swift water rescues and the state's forestry department is helping with debris cleanup.