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Historic Weather Events
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Arkansas has had its share of historic events, many of which will be in our memories for years to come.
 
NOAA Weather Radio Transmitter Providing Expanded Coverage
 

The Albert Pike Recreation Area of the Ouachita National Forest now receives a broadcast from NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards (as determined through several field tests by the National Weather Service). The broadcast originates from the High Peak transmitter, which is located in western Arkansas near Norman (Montgomery County).

On June 11, 2010, nearly 300 sleeping campers were caught unprepared and 20 lost their lives when a flash flood struck the Albert Pike campgrounds.

 

The extent of the 5 microvolt signal of the High Peak (Montgomery County) transmitter (in blue).
In the picture: The extent of the 5 microvolt signal of the High Peak (Montgomery County) transmitter (in blue).

 

Link of Interest
High Peak Coverage Area

 

"Expanded coverage of the NOAA Weather Radio signal reaching the Albert Pike campgrounds will improve safety for visitors who flock to this beautiful area for vacation each year," said Jack Hayes, director of the National Weather Service. "Albert Pike has irregular topography with steep terrain, and many popular campsites are in low-lying, remote areas. Since the Weather Radio signal can't reach everywhere, I urge campers to check the weather forecast before they begin their camping trip and test their NOAA Weather Radio receiver before setting up camp to ensure access to timely weather and flood warnings."

National Weather Service technicians tested different NOAA Weather Radio receivers in the Albert Pike recreation area, including a state-of-the-art receiver, an older model and a couple of handheld receivers. The tests included specific locations as well as in a moving vehicle, covering four designated campgrounds. All of the radios performed well at each campground. The High Peak transmitter has enough elevation to provide a direct, unobstructed signal to the campgrounds.