Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders has deployed nearly 170 Arkansas National Guardsmen to staff 28 winter weather response teams as the state prepares for a major winter storm expected to impact Arkansas this weekend.
The teams will assist the Arkansas State Police with transporting stranded motorists and providing additional emergency support during hazardous travel conditions. Guardsmen are also being ordered to state active duty to provide command and control operations and public affairs support throughout the storm response.
“Our National Guardsmen are always on call to assist our state when disaster strikes and, as this weekend’s winter storm approaches, we will need all the assistance we can get to keep Arkansans safe,” Governor Sanders said. “These men and women prepare every single day for events like this, and I know our state is in good hands with their support.”
Guardsmen began their orders Friday, January 23, 2026, and will provide around-the-clock support until they are no longer needed. Each winter weather response team consists of five Guardsmen, two Humvees, and specialized communications equipment.
The Arkansas National Guard serves in a support role to augment civil authorities when directed by the Governor, helping ensure public safety during emergency situations.
Earlier this week, Governor Sanders declared a State of Emergency and authorized $250,000 to support response and recovery efforts. The Governor also launched HelpArkansas.com, a centralized resource website to help residents locate food assistance, warming centers and shelters, road conditions, power outage information, and storm preparedness resources.
Officials urge Arkansans to limit travel during severe weather and remain alert to official updates from emergency agencies and local broadcasters.
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