Compare prices at Lone Start Building Supply

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Lone Star Building Supply in Princeton offers a full lumber yard and sells building supplies for all types of construction.

Musgove Overhead Doors is part of the business, and both divisions offer free quotes.

Lone Star Building Supply is located on U.S. 62 between Princeton and Eddyville. 

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On Monday's NEWScast

get recent obituaries, news and sports

from around the area.

Some highlights include:

New Cell Towers, a robbery suspect in custody,

a conversation with Sen. Jason Howell,

Basketball Updates and even some Football News

WEATHER UPDATE: Below Freezing until Thursday

A prolonged Arctic air mass is set to bring dangerously cold temperatures to the region, with conditions expected to persist from Sunday through Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service in Paducah.

Temperatures will drop below freezing tonight and remain below 32 degrees until Thursday. Wind chills could fall to as low as -8 Sunday night, with high temperatures reaching only the teens or 20s and lows in the single digits. A light dusting of snow is possible tonight, mainly in western Kentucky.

The cold snap is expected to be more severe and longer-lasting than recent events, but no winter storms are forecast. Residents are urged to take precautions, particularly those working with unsheltered populations.

Crittenden opens Gov Cup action

 The 2025 Governor’s Cup high school season begins next week, as academic teams from across the state will compete in eight events in district competitions.

Governor’s Cup includes eight events: two team events – future problem solving and quick recall – and six individual events – assessments in arts and humanities, language arts, mathematics, science and social studies along with a composition event.

The future problem solving and composition events will be held Tuesday, Jan. 21, at the host sites for the district competition, and the quick recall and assessment events and the awards ceremony will be held Saturday, Jan. 25.

In future problem solving, teams are given a hypothetical situation and asked to come up with a solution. In quick recall, teams of four students compete in a question-and-answer competiton.

The breakdown of Governor’s Cup high school Region 1 districts is:

• District 1: Ballard Memorial, Carlisle County (host), Fulton, Fulton County and Hickman County.

• District 2: Marshall County, McCracken County, Paducah Tilghman and St. Mary (host).

• District 3: Calloway County, Graves County (host), Mayfield and Murray.

• District 4: Caldwell County, Crittenden County, Livingston Central and Trigg County (host).

The top two teams in the team events and the top five individuals in the individual events advance to the

Court clears way for TikTok to go dark

The U.S. Supreme Court has upheld the federal law requiring TikTok to sever ties with its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, or face a ban in the U.S. The ruling, issued just days before the law is set to take effect on Sunday, concludes weeks of heated debate over the app's operations and potential national security concerns.

In oral arguments last week, justices expressed skepticism toward TikTok’s claim that the ban infringes on its First Amendment rights, according to the news source Forbes. Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson pointed out that the case is more about ByteDance's association than silencing speech. Chief Justice John Roberts argued the law targets foreign ownership and data security, not the platform’s content.

TikTok’s legal team warned of dire consequences, saying the app would “go dark” if the ban is implemented. Content creators also voiced concerns about losing their livelihoods and the platform's unique algorithm, which Justice Samuel Alito likened to “an irreplaceable old article of clothing.”

While the federal government defended the ban as a necessary measure against potential manipulation by China, some justices, including Neil Gorsuch, raised doubts, the Associated Press reported. Gorsuch questioned whether less extreme measures, like warning labels, could address security concerns without infringing on user freedoms.

Despite the contentious debate, the Supreme Court's decision clears the way for the law to take effect as scheduled. For TikTok users and creators, the clock is ticking—unless ByteDance takes swift action to divest its U.S. operations, the app could be shut down as early as this weekend.

Stay tuned as this story unfolds.

Cardinals Caravan coming to Paducah Monday

The St. Louis Cardinals Caravan, presented by Missouri Farm Bureau Insurance, is making its highly anticipated return to Paducah this Monday. The event kicks off at noon at the McCracken Convention Center, offering fans a chance to meet their favorite players and alumni.

This year's Paducah stop will be emceed by Matt Pauley and features current players Thomas Saggese, Chris Roycroft, Kyle Leahy, and Sem Robberse. Joining them will be Cardinals alumni Kerry Robinson and Al Hrabosky, who are sure to bring their unique perspectives and stories to the event.

The Caravan is a cherished tradition, providing fans outside St. Louis with a unique opportunity to connect with the team. As always, the club will implement its popular autograph ticket system. The first 400 kids, ages 15 and under, to arrive at the event will receive a free autograph ticket. This ticket guarantees one autograph from each player and alumnus in attendance, making it a perfect chance for young fans to create lasting memories.

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Livingston Hospital Expansion Project

New Lawman Coming to Town

Much more in News and Sports

Creative Construction covers your remodeling needs

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Are you in need of a reno? Contact Creative Construction owner Lisa Crossen. 

With years experience in kitchen, bath and overall home remodels, Crossen can create the vision for your project.
Creative Construction specializes in granite installation, tiled shower and general interior design and remodeling.

Call Lisa Crossen, located in Crittenden County, at (504) 912-8630.

KSP looking for animal cruelty suspect

UPDATE: This individual has been apprehended. 

Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 2 is seeking the public's assistance in locating a wanted man last known to reside on Frazer Lane in the Nebo area of Hopkins County.

Tyler James Morgan, 30,, is wanted out of Hopkins, Caldwell, Webster and Union counties as well as Vanderburgh County in Indiana. Morgan’s warrants include:

• 25 counts of Cruelty To Animals-2^nd Degree
• Multiple Traffic Violations
• 3 counts of Theft By Failure to Make Required Disposition of Property
• Unlawful Access To Computer-1^st Degree
• Fleeing or Evading Police – 3^rd Degree  
• Fraud/Theft- Value of Property (Vanderburgh County)

Morgan’s Criminal Summonses include:

• Theft By Deception-Include Cold Checks
• Theft By Failure to Make Required Disposition of Property

Tyler J. Morgan is described as a white male, 5’ 8”, 150 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes. Morgan was last seen near the area of Frazer Lane in Nebo, Kentucky.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Tyler J. Morgan is asked to contact Kentucky State Police, Post 2 at (270) 676-3313. Citizens may also report tips confidentially through the KSP website Tip Form found here: https://www.kentuckystatepolice.ky.gov/tip

Water district special meeting

Crittenden-Livingston Water District will meet in special session today at 4pm at the Deer Lakes meeting room in Salem.

On the agenda are discussions about grants and personnel matters. 

Frigid air coming next week

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National Weather Service in Paducah, Kentucky, has issued a warning regarding a prolonged Arctic outbreak impacting the region from Sunday through Wednesday. Key details are as follows:

A surge of Arctic air will result in several days of hazardous cold, with the most severe conditions occurring Sunday through Wednesday.

Wind chill values will range from the single digits to the teens across the region. Sub-zero wind chill values are expected for several hours on Monday and Tuesday mornings.

High temperatures will only reach the teens and 20s, with overnight lows dropping into the single digits.

Conditions are forecasted to moderate back to seasonal norms after Wednesday.

Organizations supporting unhoused populations should activate cold-weather plans immediately to mitigate risks during this period.

For more details and resources, visit the Warming Center Forecast Page at www.weather.gov/pah/WarmingCoolingCenters. Stay informed and take necessary precautions.

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Crittenden Community Hospital Expanding Footprint

News and Sports Around the Area

Boil Water Advisory for East Depot Street

UPDATE: Order was lifted just before noon today (Wednesday) 

ORIGINAL POST

Today at 2 p.m., the City of Marion has issued a boil water advisory for at least the next 24 hours for customers along East Depot Street (KY 506) from Maxwell Street to Briarwood Drive. 

While the water main break that prompted the advisory has been repaired, Mayor D'Anna Browning emphasized that, out of an abundance of caution, residents in the affected area should boil their water until the advisory is officially lifted. 

Round Trip Ride to All A State

Patriot Tours is organizing a chartered bus trip to the Lady Rockets’ game on Wednesday, Jan. 22 in the All A Classic State Tournament at Owensboro, if at least 30 riders register by noon Monday. 

Cost is $40, which does not include your $10 game ticket from GoFan. 

Bus will travel non-stopped to Owensboro, leaving Marion around 5:30 p.m., and leave following the game on a non-stopped return trip. To register email or call Denis Hodge at denishodge14@gmail.com 270-704-0643.

READ ABOUT THE LADY ROCKETS' All A Regional championship and berth in the state tournament.

Water District Bills List in Mail

Customers of Crittenden-Livingston County Water District will not face late penalties for January bills after it appears that all bills were lost in the postal system, district officials said.

Residents can call the office at 270-988-2680 to obtain their bill amounts. The water district requests that customers avoid contacting the water plant unless it's a water-related emergency, as plant staff do not have access to billing information.

The district has about 3,600 customers. While some are set up for auto pay, most are not.

It appears, the district says, that the bills were incorrectly routed to Louisville from the Evansville sorting center. Now, the bills cannot be found.

The district apologizes for the inconvenience and thanks its customers for their patience.

Lyon County Sheriff's Activity

- On Monday, January 6, 2025, around 9:44pm, Deputy David Carroll was on patrol in the Suwanee area when he made a traffic stop on a vehicle which was being driven by Steven Warfield (47) of Kuttawa. Warfield was arrested on a Marshall Circuit Court indictment warrant charging him with Trafficking in Controlled Substance-1st Degree, 2nd or greater offense (Methamphetamine), Possession of Marijuana, Drug Paraphernalia-Possession, and Prescription Not in Property Container. Warfield was lodged in the Marshall County Detention Center. 

- On Wednesday, January 8, 2025, beginning around 9am and continuing until just after 4pm, deputies arrested and charged the following offenders:

• Paige E. Hill (24) of Princeton on a Caldwell District Court bench warrant for Failure to Appear. She was lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center and later transferred to the Caldwell County Jail. Herbert R. Brennan (56) of Nevada on a Lyon District Court bench warrant for Contempt of Court. He is lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.
• Austin G. Oliver (39) of Eddyville on a Lyon Circuit Court indictment warrant charging him with Burglary-3rd Degree, Criminal Mischief-1st Degree, and Persistent Felony Offender-1st Degree. He is lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.
• Tamara Gipson (47) of Eddyville on a Lyon Circuit Court indictment warrant charging her with Perjury-1st Degree. She is lodged in the Crittenden County Detention Center.

- On Wednesday, January 8, 2025, just after 3:30pm, Sheriff Brent White and Chief Deputy Sam Adams located Heather D. Thornton (45) of Marion at a residence off Joe Peek Road. Thornton was arrested by Sheriff White on two outstanding warrants. She was charged on a Lyon District Court complaint warrant

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Press Editor Chris Evans interviewing Mayor Browning

during Party in the Park for this morning's show

11-foot snowman likely record

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This 11-foot snowman might be a local record. The efforts 

of a big group of folks resulted in a super-sized snowman Saturday.

While youth were creating snow masterpieces at the Winter Blitz at the park, Jeremy and Katerina Wring and friends created this fella at their home. 

Pictured are the Wrings and their children, Ben & Leanna Beachy, Ashton Long, Hannah Whitney, Jessica Walker and Stewart and 

Wesley Haberlock.

Park snow party tonight

A snow party in the park is planned for 5 p.m., today at Marion's City-County Park. 

Coordinated by Mayor D'Anna Browning with assistance from local agencies and businesses, the event will feature a sledding contest, a snowman building contest, warming stations, food, prize giveaways and door prizes. 

Hot dogs, chili and s'mores are being provided, along with popcorn, cookies, hot chocolate, and cider from  local businesses. 

The UK Basketball game will be aired on a big screen at 7:30 p.m., with fireworks following the win.

Many individuals and businesses are providing everything needed to make this a memorable event for the residents of Marion, particularly its youth.

See the Mayor's Office - City of Marion, KY Facebook page for more details.

CRITTENDEN COUNTY | Missing Person

Update: The woman has been found and is safe.

ORIGINAL POST 

Kentucky State Police is looking for a missing Marion woman.

Rachel L. Cook, 32, of Marion, was last seen at her parents' home on State Route 120 in Marion on January 6.

Cook is described as a white female, standing 5’4” tall and weighing 136 pounds, with blonde hair and blue eyes. She was last seen wearing black leggings, a hoodie, and tennis shoes. Distinctive tattoos include the phrase “Hakuna Matata” above her chest and floral designs on both lower arms.

Anyone with information about Rachel Cook's whereabouts is urged to contact Kentucky State Police Post 2 at (270) 676-3313. Tips can also be submitted confidentially through the KSP website using their online tip form at www.kentuckystatepolice.ky.gov/tip.

The investigation remains ongoing and is being led by Trooper Darron Holliman.

County closes offices for afternoon

 For the safety of both staff members and the public, all county offices, including the County Convenience Center and Animal Shelter, closed today at 11:30 a.m.

While most staff members will leave for the day, officials emphasize that emergency calls and urgent matters will still be addressed. The public is reminded to remain cautious as road crews and emergency responders continue snow removal and emergency services throughout today, tonight, and into the weekend.

If you encounter snowplows or emergency vehicles, please slow down and give them ample space. Snow removal and emergency response operations can be challenging due to reduced visibility, limited control, and longer stopping distances.

The convenience center and animal shelter will also be closed on Saturday. 

HOUSE FIRE | Family gets out safely

The Marion Fire Department, along with firefighters and resources from across Crittenden and Livingston counties, responded to a house fire on Sturgis Road, across from Food Giant. 

The blaze started around 8 a.m., awakening the family inside. 

A mother and her three children were able to escape unharmed thanks to a fire alarm. The blaze apparently started in the kitchen area. 

Firefighters quickly knocked down the flames but initially struggled to fully extinguish the fire, which was concealed between the walls of the home. They eventually prevailed, saving much of the home and family belongings. 

FRIDAY NEWScast | Snowy Wintry Day

 

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Court News – Weather Update – Sports

Crittenden and Livingston cancels school for Friday

Due to forecast of snowy weather Crittenden County and Livingston County have canceled school for Friday, Jan. 10. It will be a traditional snow day for Crittenden with no school work due and a LiveRed NTI day for Livingston.

NO MAIL | No newspaper in your mail

 In case you've missed today's Press, it's because of the National Day of Observance for former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away.

There was no US Postal Service delivery today, so your newspaper will not arrive until tomorrow. However, if you have the electronic version, you got your paper yesterday.

You can also buy a copy on newsstands in Marion, Salem or Fredonia. 

Area Braces for More of Winter’s Wrath

US 60 West between Marion and Salem on Wednesday

As Crittenden and Livingston counties prepare for a winter weather event later this week, residents are urged to take precautions to stay safe and informed. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Paducah, dangerous cold, freezing fog, and significant snowfall are expected to impact the region over the next few days.

FROM THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE

What to Expect | Tonight's Cold Weather Advisory:

Wind chills near zero degrees along the I-64 corridor. Dress warmly and limit outdoor exposure.

Freezing Fog and Black Ice Overnight:

A Freezing Fog Advisory is in effect from midnight to 9am. Expect reduced visibility and slippery conditions on bridges and overpasses. Drive cautiously.

Winter Weather Alerts for Friday:

Snowfall begins early Friday morning and could last into late Friday night.

Areas under Winter Storm Warnings may see snowfall totals of 4 inches or more.

Marion and Smithland are likely to experience 2–4 inches of snow under a Winter Weather Advisory, but local updates could adjust these totals.

Snow Character and Travel Impacts:

Dry, fluffy snow is anticipated, which may lead to slippery roads. Plan travel with extra caution or delay non-essential trips.

Timing of Snowfall:

Snowfall is expected to start early to mid-morning Friday and continue through late Friday night, tapering off by Saturday morning.

Local Schools:

Livingston County is back in session today and Crittenden County is on a one-hour delay with buses running on Snow Routes only.

School resumes on delay Thursday

With most of our roads are clear, Crittenden County Schools will run buses and open school on a one-hour delay Thursday, Jan. 9. Buses will run on snow routes only, for both morning pick up and afternoon drop off. Families whose children ride a bus will be calling today starting around 3 p.m., to confirm a pick up and drop off spot.

Auction Friday at UBid in Marion

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U Bid Auction House will hold its first auction of the new. year at 6 p.m., Friday, Jan. 10

Among items up for sale are tools, furniture, a commercial rug cleaner and new wholesale items, plus more.

National Weather Service | Local Update

Weather Update for Livingston and Crittenden counties 
Issued January 8, 2025, 3:50 AM by the National Weather Service, Paducah, KY

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Winter Storm Watch in Effect

• Timing: Late Thursday night through Friday evening.
• Snow Accumulation:
  • 4 inches or more of snow is likely in the watch area, with heavier amounts possible.
  • At least 1 inch of snow is expected region-wide.
• Chance of Heavy Snowfall:
  • There is a 60-80% chance of snowfall exceeding 4 inches in parts of the region.

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Impacts:

• Travel Difficulties:
  Snow will accumulate quickly, significantly impacting travel. Hazardous road conditions are expected for both the Friday morning and evening commutes.
• Cold Temperatures:
  Temperatures will remain below freezing during the storm, worsening road conditions and increasing risks.

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Additional Cold Weather Concerns:

• Wind Chill:
  Single-digit wind chill values near zero are expected early this morning and again Thursday morning.
• Freezing Conditions:
  Lingering power outages could exacerbate the cold’s dangers, including risks of frozen plumbing.

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Outlook:

• Friday: Moderate to heavy snowfall to continue with below-freezing temperatures throughout the day.
• Sunday: Temperatures may rise above freezing temporarily but will drop again Sunday night as another cold front arrives, bringing sub-freezing air into the region.

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Weather update | Basketball updates | No school

Update 3pm with no school Wednesday 

While the threat of snowfall later in the week looms large for local residents and planners, things are getting back to something akin to normal today.

Still, KU is showing a handful of power users without electricity in Marion, and Kenergy has a few isolated spots with about 150 customers still without power. Those are concentrated in the areas of Phin Croft Road, Siloem Church Road, Irma White Road, KY 838, Wring-Grimes Road, North Kirk Bluff, View Road, and Dameron Road.

Planners of high school sporting events are trying to sort through options, as the All A Classic boys’ and girls’ basketball tournaments are supposed to be played this week. Crittenden County is hosting the girls’ tournament, and Dawson Springs is hosting the boys’.

The Rocket basketball team will host Lyon County tonight at 6 p.m. for the opening round of the tournament at Rocket Arena. The semifinal and final rounds will be at Dawson.

The Lady Rockets’ opening game, which was originally set for Monday, is now slated for 6 p.m. Wednesday at Rocket Arena. The semifinals are Thursday, with the championship at 4 p.m. Saturday in Marion.

Additionally, there will be no school in Crittenden County on Wednesday. 

Lyon County Sheriff's Report

LYON COUNTY SHERIFF’S ACTIVITY 

- On Thursday, December 26, 2024, around 10:50pm, Deputy Shannon Oliver responded to KY 1943, East of KY 373, for a single-vehicle collision. His investigation revealed a 2000 Mazda, driven by Matthew Todd Figert (33) of Kuttawa, was driving too fast when he lost control of his vehicle and exited the right shoulder before colliding with a tree. There was severe damage to the vehicle, but no injuries were reported.

- On Monday, December 30, 2024, beginning around 9:30am and continuing through Tuesday, December 31, 2024, around 7:16pm, deputies served multiple warrants from Lyon Circuit and District Courts on the following offenders:

• Marcos Herrera-Zamora (38) of Norfolk, VA, charged with five (5) counts of Criminal Possession of a Forged Instrument-2nd Degree.
• Miranda Gerald (31) of Benton, charged with Probation Violation for Felony Offense.
• Nicopolis English (46) of Paducah, charged with Failure to Appear in Lyon District Court as it pertained to a Criminal Mischief case.
• Alonzo Sherrill (46) of Mayfield, charged with DUI-2nd Offense, Operating on Suspended License, Fleeing/Evading Police-1st Degree, Wanton Endangerment-1st Degree, Criminal Mischief-1st Degree, numerous other traffic related offenses and Persistent Felony Offender-1st Degree.
• Leanci Menocal Vega (26) of Sarasota, FL, charged with Fleeing/Evading-1st Degree, Wanton Endangerment-1st Degree, DUI-1st Offense, Receiving Stolen Property-$10,000 or more, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Paraphernalia-Possession, and numerous traffic offenses.
• Messiah O. Robinson (20) of Gaston, SC, who was extradited from South Carolina and charged with Probation Violation for Felony Offense. Robinson was previously convicted in May of 2024 of Trafficking in a Controlled Substance and Trafficking in Marijuana. A circuit judge granted Robinson shock probation in those cases, to which the offender now stands accused of violating the terms of that probation.

- On Tuesday, December 31, 2024, around 3:42pm, Kentucky State Police (KSP) Troopers and Sheriff’s Deputies were dispatched to a domestic assault complaint on KY 903, just North of Lamasco. The victim

Crittenden Among Hardest Hit by Ice

National Weather Service in Paducah has released its assessment of the freezing rain and ice accumulation that struck southern Illinois and western Kentucky over the weekend, highlighting the significant impact on Crittenden County.

Crittenden was among the hardest-hit areas, particularly in its northern region, where up to three-fourths of an inch of ice accumulated. This area, along with the rest of southern Illinois, saw some of the most severe conditions. 

Meanwhile, southern Crittenden County, Livingston County and Caldwell County experienced ice totals ranging from a quarter to half an inch.

Most of western Kentucky received between a tenth and a quarter of an inch of ice, with lower totals reported in Hickman and Fulton counties.

At one time on Sunday, 100% of Kenergy's service area was without power in Crittenden County.

The widespread ice storm left more than 100,000 residents across southeast Missouri, southern Illinois, northwestern Kentucky and southwest Indiana without power at its peak Sunday night into Monday morning.

Due to the lingering effects of the storm, schools in Crittenden, Caldwell and Livingston counties are closed today as crews continue to address icy conditions and power restoration efforts.

Dr. Kivisto provides local surgical services

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Expert surgical services are available close to home.  

Dr. Eric Kivisto is a general surgeon at Crittenden Community Hospital, providing surgical services and compassionate care for outpatient and short-term inpatient procedures. 

Contact Dr. Kivisto directly at Family Practice Clinic (270) 965-5238 or ask your provider for a referral. 

ROAD REPORT | Here's a trip round the county

ROAD REPORT | FROM MARION & CRITTENDEN COUNTY

brought to you by
Troy's Collision Center in Marion
Tom Potter | Marion State Farm agent

BONUS NEWScast with Judge Newcom & Judge Williams

 

SPECIAL REPORT | STORM INFORMATION

This is an additional newscast for Monday

with local leaders from Crittenden and Livingston counties

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Monday NEWScast | WEATHER UPDATES & $20K Shot

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BIG SHOW THIS MORNING

We're posting a little later than normal in order

to bring you the latest weather information 

Latest from the National Weather Service

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Latest Weather Related Update

Updated with additional information at 8:30pm

A warming shelter has been designated for local residents. It will be at the new Marion Waste Water Treatment Plant on Pippi Hardin Blvd., on the north side of Marion. The treatment plant has a large back-up generator and plenty of space to accommodate a warming center, said Crittenden County Emergency Management Director Jason Hurley.

The warming shelter will open at 4:30pm.

Crittenden County Rescue Squad, volunteer fire departments, Marion Fire Department area available to assist.

Those seeking shelter at the warming center will need to bring, if possible, sleeping bags, blankets, food, phone chargers, stadium chairs, their personal medication, etc.

Anyone needing emergency assistance can call E-911 Dispatch at 270-965-3500.

SECOND WARMING SHELTER

Shady Grove Volunteer Fire Department has been established as a warming shelter as well. If you are in the Shady Grove area and need assistance, call 270-836-8368.

POWER OUTAGES

There are widespread outages across the area. Below are links to local power companies' outage maps.

Kentucky Utilities Outage Center

Kenergy Outage Center

Jackson Purchase Power

Consolidated Find Energy Power Outage Data

ROAD REPORT

While roads are currently wet without much icing, they are expected to refreeze overnight which will make driving conditions hazardous.

SCHOOLS

Crittenden, Lyon, Livingston and Caldwell counties will have no school Monday.

OTHER CLOSINGS

- Crittenden County Office Complex

- Crittenden-Livingston Water District office

- Marion City Hall

- Crittenden County Convenience Center

- Crittenden County Animal Shelter

SPORTS EVENTS

- All A Classic Basketball Tournament at Rocket Arena is postponed from Monday to Tuesday 

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE UPDATE

Warnings and advisories remain in effect. 

In general, a transition to mainly freezing rain and drizzle is expected through the evening hours while the heaviest of the precipitation gradually winds down from west to east.  Even in southern counties where plain rain has been falling, icing continues in the trees with a very shallow sub-freezing layer.

While some melting of ice remains possible in southern/eastern counties this evening, much colder air on the back side of the system will change leftover precipitation to light snow overnight and into Monday morning.  This will result in an accumulation of 1 to 2 inches of new snowfall through Monday morning, with heaviest accumulation focused across northern sections of southeast Missouri, southern Illinois, and southwest Indiana.

In addition, plunging temperatures will likely cause refreezing of roadways, even where melting has been observed this afternoon.  Those locations across the heart of the Quad State region, roughly in and near the Ice Storm Warning area, will likely continue to experience downed tree branches and power lines causing extensive power outages through the night and into Monday given the gusty winds anticipated.

Winter Storm Emergency Declaration

As the forecasted winter storm approaches, bringing widespread ice accumulation followed by heavy snowfall, both Crittenden County and the City of Marion have declared a state of emergency. The storm is expected to impact the area from this evening through January 6. This proactive declaration enables local authorities to coordinate resources effectively and respond swiftly to protect the safety and well-being of residents. Judge-Executive Perry Newcom and Mayor D'Anna Browning each issued emergency declarations earlier this afternoon. 

Emergency Response Plans in Motion

Crittenden County’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) has been activated, with all emergency response agencies on full alert. Comprehensive emergency action plans have been distributed to ensure preparedness. Collaboration with state, local, and emergency response agencies is well underway to address potential challenges, including power outages, dangerous road conditions, and shelter needs.

Assistance and Emergency Services

Residents requiring assistance during the storm are encouraged to contact dispatch at 270-965-3500 for non-urgent needs or call 911 in case of an emergency. Crittenden County Emergency Management and MCC-911 Dispatch are coordinating efforts to address emergency calls and ensure necessary resources are deployed promptly.

Shelters and Support Services

Plans for emergency shelters are in place to provide relief in the event of power outages or severe cold. These shelters are controlled-access facilities, with locations determined based on specific needs, such as warming stations or power-loss shelters. Residents requiring shelter will be directed by emergency services to the appropriate facility.

Stay Safe and Prepared

As the storm progresses, residents are urged to remain informed, avoid unnecessary travel, and take necessary precautions to stay safe. For updates on the situation and guidance, monitor local news outlets and official emergency communications channels.

Winter Storm Alert: Brace for a Wintry Mix Tonight

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The National Weather Service has issued an urgent winter storm forecast starting late tonight, January 4. Here's what local residents need to know about the incoming storm and its potential impacts:

What to Expect

• Timing:
  • The storm will start between 10 PM and 1 AM tonight, spreading from west to east. It will continue through Sunday night, tapering off as light snow into early Monday morning.
• Precipitation Types:
  • A mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow is expected to blanket the region. Freezing rain may transition to rain in the southern counties during the early hours of Sunday, but sleet and snow will persist elsewhere.
• Hazards:
  • Damaging ice accumulations are likely, particularly in areas under Ice Storm Warnings. Snowfall is also anticipated in regions with Winter Storm Warnings.
  • Widespread power outages are expected, coupled with gusty winds and dangerously cold temperatures following the storm.

Impacts on Travel and Safety

• Travel Conditions:
  • Hazardous road conditions are likely throughout the weekend. Heavy precipitation and slick surfaces may make driving treacherous.
• Power Outages:
  • With significant ice accumulation and strong winds, power outages are expected across affected areas. Residents should prepare for extended outages by stocking up on essentials.
• Post-Storm Arctic Chill:
  • Beginning Monday, temperatures are forecasted to drop significantly, with wind chills plunging into single digits or below zero. This could exacerbate challenges caused by power outages.

Preparation Tips

1. Stock Up: Ensure you have enough food, water, and medications to last several days.
2. Stay Warm: Prepare alternative heating methods in case of power loss and keep extra blankets handy.
3. Protect Your Home: Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing, and have sand or salt ready to treat icy walkways.
4. Travel Caution: Avoid unnecessary travel. If you must drive, carry an emergency kit and check road conditions.

Looking Ahead

The storm's effects will linger into Monday morning, with precipitation ending as light snow. However, the arctic cold that follows will be a major concern, particularly for areas experiencing power outages. The National Weather Service advises continued monitoring of updates as small shifts in the storm's path could affect precipitation types and accumulations.

Stay safe and prepare now for this significant winter event. For the latest updates, visit weather.gov/pah/winter. 

Garage door installer wanted

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Looking for a job? 

Bobby Howard is hiring a garage door installer.

Call to discuss terms. (270) 508-0043.

NEWScast | Grant Money for the New Year!

 

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Fit Camp begins Jan. 7

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An eight-week program offered at Full Body Fitness Studio in Marion is a great way to start the new year.

Beginning Tuesday, Jan. 7, Fit Camp classes are 

offered at various times to help you get in shape and improve your health.

Contact Serena Dickerson, certified personal trainer, 

at (270) 704-1871 to register.

Weekend weather threat increasing

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A winter storm is on the way and is expected to bring mixed precipitation types to our area late Saturday night into early Monday. This system poses a significant concern for travel, so let's break down what we know and how it may affect you.

Timing: Precipitation will begin late Saturday night, peak during the day on Sunday, and taper off by early Monday morning.

Precipitation: Marion is in Zone 2, which means we are likely to see a wintry mix of sleet, snow, and freezing rain. Travel impacts are likely, so plan accordingly and stay off the roads if possible.

Uncertainty: The exact track of the storm is still uncertain, which could affect how much snow, sleet, and freezing rain we receive. Stay tuned for updates as forecasts are refined.

Impact Level: The National Weather Service has raised concerns to a growing level, so now is the time to prepare. Icy roads and power outages are possible, so stock up on essentials and have an emergency kit ready.