Local News

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety and the Mississippi Highway Patrol are marking their 88th anniversary this year. State records show the agencies were created by Senate Bill 161 in 1938.

The National Weather Service in Memphis warned that strong southerly winds on Thursday could make travel difficult for high-profile vehicles, especially along and west of the Mississippi River. The office said there is a low risk of severe weather late Thursday afternoon into the evening, including damaging winds and a brief tornado.

CoCoRaHS is urging volunteers to take part in this year’s RainGaugeRally to strengthen its precipitation network and compete in an April contest, the organization said.

Organizers at 204 South Commerce Street said their regular food truck will be taking a break this Saturday and they are inviting local vendors to set up for the day.

Organizers mark April as National Minority Health Month and encourage SNAP recipients to use benefits to buy fiber-rich, low-sugar, vitamin-rich foods to improve household health, they said.

The Mississippi Department of Human Services said it will begin sending text messages to SNAP recipients to help them meet program requirements and submit documents from their phones.

Michigan Department of Transportation uses a Mario-themed message to remind drivers to slow down and prioritize safety.

The Tupelo Police Department will hold a community conversation called Real Talk with TPD on April 18, the department said. The free event will feature Chief John Quaka, guest speakers and a question-and-answer session.

A commentary circulating online alleges Mississippi paid inflated prices for equipment, spent millions on services for undocumented immigrants and routed tax dollars to nonprofits that spent money on Lyft rides and alcohol. The post did not cite sources and the claims could not be independently verified.

NEMCC will host the Mississippi Science & Engineering Fair on April 9, 2026, and is seeking volunteer judges. Teachers who judge can earn one CEU, the college said.