EXCESSIVE HEAT TO BLANKET THE AREA BEGINNING ON THURSDAY
Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas residents are being encouraged to prepare for oppressive heat that will blanket the area Thursday and Friday.
According to the National Weather Service in Paducah, dangerously hot conditions are expected with heat index values of 105 to 115 degrees possible. Highs are also forecast to get above 100 degrees.
Officials say that everyone should be prepared to drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors.
NEW FIRE TRUCK DELIVERED TO THE POPLAR BLUFF FIRE DEPARTMENT
A new fire truck has been delivered to the Poplar Bluff Fire Department.
According to fire officials, the new truck was delivered last week to replace a 25 year old truck.
A post on the Poplar Bluff Professional Firefighters Local 2543 Facebook page thanked the Poplar Bluff City Council, City Manager Matt Winters, and the citizens of Poplar Bluff for their support.
MAN FOUND DEAD IN MISSOURI BOOTHEEL
Authorities are investigating a death in the Missouri Bootheel.
Pemiscot County Sheriff Tommy Greenwell tells KWOC News that on Monday, the body of a younger unidentified black male was located deceased in rural southwest Pemiscot County, north of the Arkansas state line.
Greenwell says that the male was wearing white shorts, white Nike Air Force shoes, and a dark colored tee shirt.
Anyone who has information concerning the investigation should contact the Pemiscot County Sheriff’s Office, or your local law enforcement agency.
FIREWORKS SAFETY TIPS
Many Southeast Missouri and Northeast Arkansas communities will be holding fireworks celebrations this weekend, but some area residents will also be enjoying the festivities at home.
The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission has released some fireworks safety tips to help keep you and your family safe this Fourth of July.
The CPSC advises parents to never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks and always have adult supervision when kids of any age are playing with fireworks, including sparklers.
Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully and keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap. Also, never point or throw fireworks at another person.
Do not light fireworks in any areas where the sparks could ignite dry grass, leaves, or other potential fire fuel. Also remember to check with local ordinances and authorities for bans on fireworks and open burning.
BE SAFE IF YOU PLAN ON BEING IN THE SUN
If you plan on getting out and enjoying the sun to celebrate the 4th of July, remember to take steps to protect your skin.
Health officials say that if you are going to be out in the sun, remember to wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 30 and apply the sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside.
The sun is the strongest between 10 am and 4 pm, so this is the best time to stay in the shade if possible.
Also remember to wear a hat with a brim all the way around to shade your face, ears, and the back of your neck.
Additional tips are available at cdc.gov.
MAN FACING METH CHARGE OUT OF STODDARD COUNTY
A Zalma man is facing drug and weapon charges following his arrest Tuesday in Stoddard County.
According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 30 year old Carlos Miniel was arrested on a felony charge of possession of a controlled substance - methamphetamine.
Miniel is also facing charges of unlawful use of a weapon and driving while intoxicated - drugs.
