AVOID: Areas of Norfolk Lake, Beaver Lake due to storm damage

ROGERS, Ark. — Damage from Saturday night’s storms that hit Northwest Arkansas extends to area lakes and campsites over Memorial Day Weekend.

According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), their Beaver Lake Project Office has shut down the Rocky Branch, Horseshoe Bend and Prairie Creek campsites due to the destructive storms from last night.

USACE says an overwhelming amount of debris, exposed powerlines and downed trees blocking access in and out of the park contributed to the campground closures. However, boat launch ramps will still be open.

The campsite closures will give USACE staff and visitors the chance to get rid of the debris and remove damaged vehicles and campers from the area.

The Benton County Emergency Operations Center is activating and coordinating the response.

The Corps is also asking people to avoid Panther Bay Marina and Buzzard Roost Boat Dock on Norfork Lake near Mountain Home, Arkansas.

The USACE in Little Rock is asking people to avoid several marinas, docks and campgrounds due to damage and power outages.

Information posted by the Army Corps of Engineers Little Rock Office to its Facebook page says, “Last night’s storm downed electric lines and severely damaged the boat docks. Work crews and first responders are onsite helping those impacted.”

“Marion and Boone county emergency management offices are coordinating the responses,” the post said.

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