But only someone who was here the day after the tornadoes struck would notice the small steps toward recovery. Mangled trees no longer block the roads, downed power lines have been lifted from yards and roadways, and damaged roofs have been covered with plastic. Residents and contractors scramble through and over homes, feverishly working to repair the damage. Beebe residents spray painted addresses on trees and signs to help insurance adjusters find them. Some schools remain closed and many people have yet to return to work, opting instead to remain with their homes until their future is better understood.
People sit on their front porches waiting for insurance adjusters.
A steady stream of traffic course sthrough the streets, the vehicles filled with gawkers, relief workers, state and federal officials, volunteers and construction workers. Those whose homes were destroyed have gone to stay in hotels or with families. Mountains of debris are stacked in their driveways. More than 2,000 Arkansas residents have asked for assistance to help repair or rebuild their homes, according to the Arkansas Department of Emergency Services. Because of limited funds, not everyone will receive the assistance they need, said Sandi Hensley, manager or a Disaster Relief Center in Beebe.