Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast 20 years ago this Friday. The storm’s worst damage was in Louisiana and Mississippi, but Arkansas also felt its ripple effects.

Storm Effects - As the remnants tracked north, Arkansas picked up modest rainfall, generally less than 2 inches. A few outer bands reached into the state. Gusty winds in the southeast knocked down trees and power lines, leaving some scattered outages. Unlike our neighbors farther east, Arkansas avoided tornadoes. For many, the rain was actually a welcome break after a hot and dry summer.

Evacuees in Arkansas - The bigger story here came after the storm. More than 70,000 people made their way to Arkansas looking for safety. Fort Chaffee near Fort Smith filled quickly, its old barracks turned into temporary housing almost ov

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