EUREKA SPRINGS, Ark. — Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge was hit by severe storms on Sunday, May 26, leaving it without power, water, or Wi-Fi.
The refuge reported many fallen trees but said none fell on the fences. "Everyone is safe," they said, but lots of cleanup would be needed.
Though it took them a while, and they were in what they describe as "crisis mode," the refuge managed to get hold of two generators.
"Since we have stored water in a well storage tank and picked up a generator to run the pump we were able to water the animals," said the refuge.
Staff and interns at the refuge have struggled to shower as they try to conserve the water available amid the chaos. Despite the staff also "living by candlelight," the refuge said all the animals were safe.
"The animals are all content, happy, and oblivious to what the humans are dealing with," the refuge said.
As of Tuesday, the refuge said it is worried about its walk-in freezers, where it keeps the meat for the animals, and is looking into other generators.
The refuge is asking the public for donations as it expects this to be a time-consuming and costly cleanup. Donations are being accepted on their Facebook page to help with the costs.
"Please be assured that no matter what the weather brings, the animals will be cared for," the refuge said.
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