Updated: Storms Strike Again

Entergy says the power outages peeked at 24,000 soon after the storm. As crews continue working to restore power, homeowners are working to clean up the damage.
Lonoke county homeowners were busy Wednesday morning picking up the pieces after the storm. Heather Pittillo woke up at 4 am to a big boom and a gaping hole in her ceiling.

"Wasn't sure what it was, wasn't sure if a tornado hit the house, or what had happened. And I just, a mother's reaction, just started hollering for my kids," she said.

Power crews combed the area early Wednesday morning and found several other homes with similar scenes.
The Butlerville Fire Department says the strong winds which passed through Lonoke county left damages mostly near highways 31 and 38.

"We couldn't see anything as far as the damage until daylight broke. And then we started seeing houses with trees on them and stuff like that," said Captain Chris Woodell.

Several trees were uprooted, limbs hung busted, while some crushed homes and cars under their weight. Pittillo says her damages are mainly from a 150-year-old Oak tree in her backyard.

"The only thing that's holding it up right now is the brick. If it hadn't been for the brick house, I could only imagine what would have happened so I'm thanking god right now that we made it out ok," said Pitillo.

Chad Bryant and his tree trimming crew spent the day helping homeowners clear the damages. He says they are looking at thousands of dollars in repairs and offers this advice.

"Hire a professional. Preferably an arborist or at least a hire a professional, don't try to do it yourself," he said.

No injuries were reported as a result of the storm. In fact, most people in central Arkansas slept through the storms and only found out about it this morning. Entergy says some places recorded winds of up to 80 miles per hour.