Earle faces further fallout as floodwaters recede

By DON WILBURN

Mayor urges school closures, praises community after evacuations and damage

donaldfwilburn@gmail.com

As _oodwaters began to pull back from roads and neighborhoods across Crittenden County, the small city of Earle found itself grappling with the full scope of the damage left behind.

Roughly 25 to 30 residents were evacuated from their homes as _ood levels rose late into the weekend. Though Earle is smaller than Marion or West Memphis, the impact was no less serious. Several major roads are still impassable.

“I am concerned that the school district leaders are not placing the safety of children rst when considering whether to hold school tomorrow, as Highway 64, Highway 149

See FALLOUT, page A2

Earle residents look on as they survey the damage still being done to their homes.

Photos by City of Earle FALLOUT

From page A1

north, Apollo Acres, and Third Street Circle are still _ooded,” said Mayor Smith, who encouraged Earle schools to remain closed as late as Tuesday morning.

In his push to keep schools closed, Mayor Smith echoed a viral warning from earlier years, quoting West Memphis Mayor Marco McClendon with the now infamous phrase, “Stay your ass at home.” Smith reposted the line more than once on social media, posting it rst to encourage residents to stay put during the storms, reviving the blunt message rst used during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He also thanked local rst responders and city workers for their quick action during the evacuations. In addition, Smith publicly credited Mayor McClendon for assisting the city during the emergency.

Earle citizens with _ood damage to residential or commercial property are asked to email Mayor-JaylenSmith@outlook.com with their name,, address, phone number and photos of the damaged property if possible. Those unable to email should call 870-7927300 ext 500 and leave a voicemail with their name, address and phone number.

Highway 64 leading to Earle and Wynne were still impassible as of early Tuesday morning.

Photos by City of Earle