Entergy Arkansas is bracing for a significant winter storm expected to bring snow, sleet, and freezing rain across the state beginning Friday and continuing through Sunday, according to a 2 p.m. update released Tuesday, January 23rd.

Forecasts call for up to 6–10 inches of snow in central and northern Arkansas, while southern parts of the state may experience ice accumulations of up to 0.75 inches. Ice buildup poses a major risk to trees, power lines, and roadways, increasing the likelihood of outages and hazardous travel conditions.

Entergy officials said power delivery teams are actively monitoring the electric grid and balancing demand to protect both customers and infrastructure. The company maintains a storm-readiness posture year-round and has crews positioned and equipped to respond quickly and safely.

In response to the extreme weather, Entergy Arkansas has proactively suspended customer disconnections through Monday, Feb. 2. Officials will reassess conditions and resume disconnections only when temperatures rise above freezing.

“Restoration during extreme cold may take longer due to hazardous conditions and high heating demands,” the utility stated. “We appreciate our customers’ patience as our crews work safely in challenging circumstances.”

How Customers Can Stay Informed

• Report outages at myentergy.com/reportoutage or via the Entergy mobile app.
• Sign up for text alerts by texting REG to 368374.
• Follow @EntergyARK on social media.
• Update contact information to ensure timely communication.
• For storm updates and safety tips, visit entergy.com/ARstormcenter.

Restoration Process and Risks

The company plans to deploy 300 damage assessors to evaluate storm impact and help determine estimated restoration times. Those estimates will be updated as conditions evolve.

Officials warned that just half an inch of ice can increase the weight of a tree limb by up to 30 times, contributing to downed trees and power lines. After outages, sudden demand from electric heating and appliances can overwhelm systems. Customers are advised to turn off major appliances until power is fully restored.

Safety Reminders

• Stay away from downed power lines and report them by calling 1-800-9OUTAGE.
• Never attempt to remove debris near power lines.
• Keep clear of utility work zones.
• Operate generators only outdoors and follow manufacturer safety instructions.
• Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors.
• Avoid unnecessary travel to reduce accidents and allow crews clear access.

Additional cold weather tips are available at entergy.com/cold.