Local News

Kim Smith, assistant director of NEMCC Adult Education, says the program gives people a second chance and helps them recognize their potential, the college said in a staff spotlight.

Forecasters say parts of Mississippi face a slight (Level 2) risk of severe storms today, with the main threat expected from midafternoon into the night and damaging winds possible.

A social media post asked residents in “shaded red areas” to report downed trees after storms the previous afternoon and overnight, using the hashtag #mswx.

Forecasters say the Mid-South will turn cooler and drier beginning Saturday, easing extreme heat index readings just in time for the weekend.

The National Weather Service in Memphis says an Air Quality Alert remains in effect through tomorrow as stagnant summer air traps pollutants; conditions are expected to ease by early next week.

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety’s Driver Service Bureau said McCoy Rather was issued a learner’s permit and urged applicants to make appointments before visiting driver service centers.

Blue Mountain Christian University said crews finished mechanical, electrical and plumbing trim-out on both levels and installed acoustical ceiling tile on the main level this week as interior and exterior work continues.

The Mississippi Department of Transportation said a crash on I-220 north of U.S. 80 West blocked all northbound lanes and was cleared at 8:45 a.m. Aug. 21, 2026.

FEMA said five disaster service centers are open in Hancock, Harrison, Pearl River and Stone counties to help residents affected by Tropical Storm Arthur on June 18–20, 2026. Residents can apply for assistance online, by phone or through the FEMA App.

The National Weather Service in Memphis says some relief is expected, but east-central Arkansas and north Mississippi could still see dangerous heat indices above 105 degrees.