Severe weather expected to impact Mid-South

Be advised of local resources and warming shelters

By DON WILBURN

donaldfwilburn@gmail.com

The National Weather Service (NWS) of_ces in Memphis and Little Rock have issued updates regarding an approaching cold front set to bring wintry weather, severe thunderstorms, and dangerously low temperatures to the Mid-South this weekend. Residents should prepare for the conditions, which will begin Thursday and persist into next week.

Wintry Weather Advisory Issued A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for areas along the Kentucky/Tennessee and Arkansas/Missouri borders. These regions may experience a light glaze of ice and scattered snow showers. While accumulations are expected to remain light, icy patches could create hazardous travel conditions.

Flash Freeze and Bitter Cold Temperatures The passage of the cold front will usher in the coldest air of the season next week, increasing the risk of ash freezing in areas where precipitation occurs. These conditions could cause slick roadways and heightened safety concerns.

Community Preparations for Bitter Cold West Memphis and Crittenden County currently lack a dedicated warming center. City leaders are working to identify resources to assist the homeless, those living in vehicles, and individuals unable to adequately heat their homes.

Available Resources:

■ For Males: Contact the 8th Street Mission to check availability. If the mission cannot accommodate, contact the Hospitality Hub at 590 Washington Avenue, Memphis,

See WEATHER, page A2

Be aware of dangerous road conditions as you make your way over the next several days.

Graphic courtesy of weather.gov

Don’t forget those who can’t speak for themselves and perhaps need more attention. The puppies were saved by the West Memphis Animal Shelter after being abandoned in last year’s snow storm.

Photo courtesy of WMAS WEATHER

From page A1

TN (901-730-1736). Transportation may be arranged through West Memphis PD or the Sheriff’s Of_ce.

■ For Females and Children: Contact Families in Transition to check availability.

If unavailable, the Hospitality Hub is also an option.

■ In Marion (available to all): The Crossings Church (Formerly Marion Methodist) Matt Sample Youth Building 81 Military Road, Marion, AR Entrance off Military Road, next to Marion City Hall Hours of Operation: Opens: Wednesday at 9 a.m.

Closes: Saturday at 10 a.m. Details:

■ Open for come-and-go

access until 6a.m. daily.

■ After 6 p.m., anyone who leaves will not be permitted to re-enter until the following day.

■ Doors close for good Saturday morning as temperatures are expected to rise into the mid-30s.

Persons from First Baptist Church on Missouri, which was used as a warming center last year, say that they maybe open their doors again should the city request it, but this location has not been con_rmed as this time.

Residents are encouraged to stay updated through the following channels:

■ Web: weather.gov/LZK

■ Phone: (501) 834-0308

■ Email: sr-lzk.forecasters @noaa.gov

■ Facebook: NWSLittle Rock

■ Twitter: @NWSLittle Rock

■ YouTube: NWSLittle Rock