Jonesboro, AR — April 3, 2025 — Craighead Electric Cooperative Corporation (CECC) personnel have been working tirelessly overnight and throughout the day to restore power following a devastating tornado that swept through the region. At the peak of the storm, 2,176 meters were affected by outages across 33 locations. Currently, the cooperative has 614 meters remaining without power.
Field assessments have revealed significant damage, including broken transmission and distribution structures, as well as numerous spans of downed wire. Currently, over 182 poles require replacement, with 55 located in off-road areas requiring specialized equipment. Additionally, 6 transmission structures sustained damage.
To expedite restoration efforts, CECC has mobilized 5 of its own crews, along with support from 5 additional crews from Arkansas Electric Cooperative and SEC, and 2 crews from City Water & Light (CWL) of Jonesboro.
“We appreciate the patience and support of our members as crews work as quickly and safely as possible to restore service,” said Justin Etter, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “The teamwork and dedication of our crews and partnering organizations are crucial in times like these.”
Current Restoration Efforts and Damage Assessment by Location:
- Lake City: Approximately 95 broken poles, affecting 400 meters without power.
- Monette: Approximately 50 broken poles, affecting 270 meters without power.
- Cash: 12 broken poles, with 180 meters without power.
- Trumann: 15 broken poles, with 45 meters without power.
- Northwest Jonesboro: 5 broken poles, with 70 meters without power.
- Earle: 5 broken poles, with 17 meters without power.
- Brookland to Lake City: 6 CECC transmission structures are broken.
CECC is making significant progress, with multiple teams working around the clock to repair damaged infrastructure and restore service as quickly as possible. However, due to the extent of the damage, some areas may experience extended outages. We strongly encourage members in affected locations to make necessary preparations for prolonged power disruptions.
CECC will continue to provide updates as restoration efforts progress. Members are encouraged to follow Craighead Electric Cooperative on social media for the latest information.
Craighead Electric Cooperative serves approximately 31,000 meters in eight counties in Northeast Arkansas. Incorporated in 1937, the cooperative operates offices in Jonesboro, Walnut Ridge and Paragould. The locally owned and managed organization has 104 employees. The cooperative’s wholly owned subsidiary, empower, serves nearly 16,500 internet subscribers.
For additional information, contact:
Marti Lynn Hook, Craighead Electric Cooperative, 870-932-8301, mhook@craigheadelectric.coop www.craigheadelectric.coop
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