As of 4 PM, on August 28th, there are 603 customers without power in the Monticello and Wilmar service areas.

Storm damage assessment is continuing with 30% of outages assessed.

Multiple broke poles, and spans of downed wire have been identified. 6 Line crews are in the area working to restore service in multiple locations around Monticello.

We expect that all customers who can safely receive power will be restored by August 30^th at 10pm.

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Due to the remnants of Hurricane Laura coming through Southeast Arkansas, Monticello School District will be dismissing students at 11:35 AM, this morning.

Drew Central Schools will be dismissing car riders at 11:25. Bus riders will be dismissed at 11:35. due to the concern for high winds, electrical outages, and formation of tornadoes.

Other districts in the area either canceled classes earlier, or are dismissing classes, now.

Drew & Ashley Counties

Minutes before 6 PM, a trained spotter in Ashley County recognized a funnel cloud, from a wall cloud in the Longview area, moving into Drew County.

Hard rain hit Monticello at 6:10, accompanied by a very strong winds.
No official tornado event has been broadcast by the National Weather Service, but please be aware of the weather situation and stay tuned to MonticelloLive.com or other trusted weather source.