Hot Springs Declares State of Emergency Ahead of McRib Return

HOT SPRINGS, AR — Hot Springs officials have reportedly declared a state of emergency ahead of the McRib’s highly anticipated return, warning residents to prepare for “unprecedented levels of barbecue-related chaos.” The sandwich is expected to return October 27, and officials are urging residents to remain calm and, under no circumstances, purchase more than 10 McRibs in a single transaction.

Hot Springs Police have reportedly established a temporary McRib Response Unit to monitor local McDonald’s locations and prevent potential drive-thru disturbances. Officers will allegedly be watching for line-cutters, sauce hoarders and anyone claiming they are “just picking one up for their grandma.” Residents are also being asked not to call 911 because their local McDonald’s ran out of McRibs.

Panic buying has reportedly already begun, with residents stocking up on napkins, antacids and emergency barbecue sauce. One Hot Springs man allegedly purchased a chest freezer after declaring, “I’m not getting burned again.” Officials also warn that residents suffering from severe McRib FOMO may drive across Garland County searching for one.

“We’ve prepared for floods, tornadoes and motorcycle rally traffic,” one official reportedly said. “But we’re not sure Hot Springs is emotionally prepared for someone finding out the McRib is sold out.” Residents are being encouraged to remain calm, eat responsibly and remember that the McRib is, technically, still just a McDonald’s sandwich.