Tornado in Arkansas, January 21, 1999

A strong tornado moved from eastern Saline County into southwest Pulaski County. Trees were downed as the tornado entered Pulaski County, with some roof damage to a business along Interstate 30 about 5 miles southwest of Little Rock. The tornado continued northeast into eastern sections of the downtown area...crossing near the intersection of Interstates 30 and 630. In this area, many homes and businesses (at least 235 structures) were heavily damaged or destroyed. It was estimated that around 750 structures sustained at least some damage. This included homes in an historic district which were built at the turn of the century. Trees were also downed throughout the area. One tree fell on a car, taking the life of a woman inside. The Governor's Mansion was not spared, with numerous trees down and one tree damaging a fence around the property. A grocery store was also destroyed at the corner of 17th and Main. One man lost his life at this location. Farther northeast, the tornado weakened as it crossed Interstate 40 just east of Highway 67/167. However, the tornado blew a tree down on a mobile home about 2 miles southeast of Sherwood. A man lost his life as a result. The tornado finally dissipated in Sherwood, with a new tornado forming in southeast Pulaski County.