Local News

MEMA said it has received reports of people charging storm victims $150 to complete FEMA and SBA assistance applications and urged residents to use the agency’s website for official help. The agency said neither FEMA, the Small Business Administration nor MEMA charge to fill out forms.

Organizers said MDOT’s Highway Safety Division Director Mark Thomas, P.E., will speak Tuesday, May 5, on balancing operational demand and safety in a webinar. The session runs 12:30-1:30 p.m. and is eligible for one professional development hour.

Peter Keith, president and general manager of 16 WAPT News, wrote an editorial warning that unsecured loads can send debris into traffic, endanger drivers and divert road crews, the editorial said.

The Mississippi Department of Transportation said it joined the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and other state agencies in recognizing May 3-9 as National Hurricane Preparedness Week and encouraged residents to prepare before the June 1-Nov. 30 hurricane season.

The National Weather Service in Memphis, Tennessee, said sustained winds could reach 25 mph with gusts of 40 to 45 mph across parts of northeast Arkansas and the Missouri Bootheel and advised residents to secure loose objects.

On Day 2 of Hurricane Preparedness Week, organizers urged residents to prepare for storms before they appear on radar, saying early preparation reduces stress and helps people focus when a storm approaches.

Chief Quaka patrols Tupelo on May 4th, blending local law enforcement duties with Star Wars celebrations.

The National Weather Service in Memphis warned of an uptick in severe weather risk beginning Tuesday and continuing into Wednesday, urging residents to monitor updates.

Forecasters said a wet and unsettled weather pattern will develop this week, with elevated chances of severe weather from Tuesday afternoon through Thursday morning and a potential for flash flooding.

On Day 1 of Hurricane Preparedness Week, officials urged residents to learn their specific storm risks, saying hurricanes can produce dangerous conditions far inland.