Death toll rises to 20, dozens still missing in SW Arkansas campgrounds flooding, gov. says

Death toll rises to 20 in Ark. floods, gov. says

CADDO GAP, Ark. — Gov. Mike Beebe says the death toll from flash flooding along a pair of Arkansas rivers has risen to 20. Rescue teams also are searching for more than 40 people reported missing.

Heavy rains triggered flooding early Friday along the Caddo and Little Missouri rivers in the southwest portion of the state.

The worst damage was at the Albert Pike Recreation Area in the Ouachita National Forest, where hundreds of people were camping.

Floodwaters rose 20 feet overnight after more than a half-foot of rain fell on the region. Anxious families are gathered near a command post for word about their loved ones.

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

CADDO GAP, Ark. (AP) — Gov. Mike Beebe says the death toll from flash flooding along a pair of Arkansas rivers has risen to 20. Rescue teams are also searching for more than 40 people reported missing.

Heavy rains triggered flooding early Friday along the Caddo and Little Missouri rivers in the southwest portion of the state.

The worst damage was at the Albert Pike Recreation Area in the Ouachita National Forest, where hundreds of people were camping.

Floodwaters rose 20 feet overnight after more than a half-foot of rain fell on the region. Anxious families are gathered near a command post for word about their loved ones.