News Summary
Memphis faces a severe weather forecast with thunderstorms and heavy rainfall leading to potential flooding. Concurrently, a pertussis outbreak has been reported at Grahamwood Elementary School, prompting health alerts and preventive measures. Residents are urged to stay safe during the storm and monitor their children’s health.
Severe Weather and Pertussis Crisis Hit Memphis and Surrounding Areas
Hey Memphis! As if we needed more drama, it looks like weโre in for some serious weather and a health scare all at once. The Weather Channel is predicting that we can expect variable clouds with strong thunderstorms rolling into our fair city. Hold onto your umbrellas and raincoats, because the forecast shows a high temperature of around 74ยฐF, with thunderstorms likely to drench us with a 100% chance of rain. Thatโs right, folks, theyโre estimating between 1 to 2 inches of precipitation. Talk about a washout!
But wait, thereโs more. With such heavy rainfall, our streets will become rivers, and significant flooding is on the way. If you live in areas prone to flooding, it might be best to stay put and avoid unnecessary travel. The winds will be blowing in from the south at 10 to 20 mph, but donโt get too cozy; by nighttime, theyโll shift to north-northeast. As we head into the evening, expect temperatures to drop to a brisk 48ยฐF!
Warning Signs for Memphis Residents
Now, while weโre hoping our houses can brave the storm, thereโs another storm brewingโthis time in our health department. A local school, the Memphis Shelby County School, has reported a case of Pertussis, otherwise known as whooping cough, at Grahamwood Elementary School. The infection was confirmed in a third grader, and the school was quick to communicate this information to parents and guardians. If you have little ones, now is the time to pay attention.
Pertussis is caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria, and letโs just say itโs as contagious as a bad cold. Symptoms can start with a persistent cough, runny nose, mild fever, watery eyes, and can even lead to vomiting after those awful coughing fits. Yikes! The Memphis Shelby County Schools (MSCS) have proven they are on top of things by rolling out a response plan. Theyโre ensuring that the classrooms where the exposure happened are being thoroughly sanitized. Plus, theyโve upped the number of nursing staff available to provide care and reassurance to worried parents.
How to Keep Your Kids Safe
In light of the pertussis situation, MSCS has sent out guidelines to help parents protect their kids. Itโs a good idea to keep an eye on your children for any of those pesky symptoms and to keep them home if theyโre feeling under the weather. Your first instinct might be to seek care for your child, so please do that! Your health provider will be the best person to guide you through this. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!
Tornado Watches in Effect
As we juggle severe weather warnings and health concerns, keep in mind that there are currently tornado watches in effect for Shelby County and nearby North Mississippi until 10:00 PM. Yes, seriously. Recent storms in Arkansas have already caused injuries and significant damage, so please stay alert and monitor the conditions closely. Itโs best to stay indoors and off the roads when the weather gets rough.
In conclusion, folks, as Memphis faces these dual challenges of severe weather and a pertussis outbreak, staying informed and prepared is of utmost importance. Letโs come together as a community to keep each other safe. Keep those umbrellas handy and stay healthy out there!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Central US Faces Severe Weather and Flooding Risks
Memphis Braces for Severe Thunderstorms This Evening
Massive Storm System Threatens Over 100 Million Americans
Severe Weather Alert: A Weekend of Storms Ahead!
Chilly Start to the Day in Memphis
Memphis Residents Urged to Conserve Energy Amid Cold Snap
Cold Weather Advisory Issued for Memphis and the Mid-South
Extreme Cold Watch Issued in North Texas
California Braces for Major Rainstorm This Winter
Winter Weather Alert: Two Major Storms Expected
Additional Resources
- Fox 13 Memphis: Snow Expected
- Google Search: Severe Weather in Memphis
- Fox 13 Memphis: Strong Storms with Tornadoes
- Wikipedia: Tornado
- Fox 13 Memphis: Catastrophic Flooding Possible
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
