Lake of the Ozarks Daily Digest — Thursday, April 16, 2026
Ty's Take
Today's bringing some serious concerns our way that cut right to the heart of what matters around here — safety and looking out for each other. The drowning of that 27-year-old Eldon man is a stark reminder that water danger doesn't just happen on the main lake during busy weekends, and with storm season ramping up and severe weather already causing power outages and flooding, we need to stay sharp about conditions both on and off the water. That school bus crash on Highway 5 should have every parent's attention too — our kids ride those roads every day, and whether it's weather-related or not, it's another wake-up call about the risks we sometimes take for granted. Between the tornado that hit Clinton and more severe weather headed our way Wednesday, this is one of those weeks where keeping your weather radio close and your emergency plans current isn't just smart — it's necessary.
Lake Expo
27-Year-Old Eldon Man Drowns In Pond Near Middle School
A 27-year-old man from Eldon died after drowning in a pond located near a local middle school. Emergency responders found the victim unresponsive in the water before he was pronounced dead.
He Went to Prison 7 Times… Now He Helps Others Stay Free | Take On The Lake Ep. 36
A local man who served seven prison sentences has turned his life around and now dedicates his time to helping others avoid incarceration. His story of redemption is featured in the latest episode of the Take On The Lake series.
This Weekend At The Lake: Boat Shows, Big Bass, Pickleball, & Food Trucks
This weekend brings multiple events to the Lake of the Ozarks area including boat shows, bass fishing tournaments, pickleball matches, and food truck gatherings. Visitors and residents can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities across the region.
Bus Carrying Dozens Of Students Crashes On Highway 5
A school bus carrying dozens of students was involved in a crash on Highway 5. Details about injuries and the cause of the accident are still being investigated by authorities.
A Lake Story Worth Living! This Waterfront Home That Checks Every Box Is Ready For New Owners
A waterfront property at Lake of the Ozarks has hit the real estate market, featuring amenities that appeal to potential lake home buyers. The listing promises buyers a complete lakefront lifestyle experience.
75th Annual Dogwood Festival Bringing Parade, Carnival & Family Fun To Camdenton Next Weekend
Camdenton will host its 75th Annual Dogwood Festival next weekend, featuring a parade, carnival rides, and family-friendly activities. The milestone celebration continues the community's long-standing spring tradition.
Camden County Auditor Jimmy Laughlin Announces Re-Election Bid
Camden County Auditor Jimmy Laughlin has officially announced his intention to seek re-election to his current position. The incumbent auditor will campaign to continue serving the county in his financial oversight role.
Lake News Online
Elks Lodge #2705 welcomes new members
Elks Lodge #2705 has inducted several new members into their organization during a recent ceremony. The local fraternal organization continues to grow its membership in the Lake area.
Day Trippin’ Bass Pro’s Hemingway’s Restaurant
Hemingway's Restaurant at Bass Pro Shops offers visitors a unique dining experience worth exploring during a day trip. The establishment combines outdoor retail shopping with quality restaurant service.
Big Bass Bash and Hope House spring event
The Big Bass Bash fishing tournament will coincide with Hope House's spring fundraising event this weekend. Both events aim to bring the community together while supporting local causes.
All hands on deck for Adopt‑the‑Shoreline cleanup at Lake of the Ozarks
Volunteers are gathering for the annual Adopt-the-Shoreline cleanup initiative at Lake of the Ozarks. The environmental effort helps maintain the lake's natural beauty and water quality for residents and visitors.
Sheriff announces D.A.R.E. graduates
The local sheriff's department has announced this year's graduates from the D.A.R.E. program. The drug awareness and resistance education initiative successfully completed another class of students.
Volunteers sought for Lake-area cleanup events and plant sale
Organizers are seeking volunteers for upcoming Lake area cleanup events and a community plant sale. The environmental initiatives offer residents multiple ways to contribute to local conservation efforts.
11th Annual Home Run Against Hunger
The 11th Annual Home Run Against Hunger event is scheduled to help address food insecurity in the Lake region. This baseball-themed charity drive continues its tradition of supporting local food banks and pantries.
Community cleanup event set for April 25 in Camden County
Camden County will host a community-wide cleanup event on April 25th to beautify local areas. Residents can participate in the environmental initiative to improve their neighborhoods and public spaces.
The Community Foundation of the Lake reached a major milestone by surpassing $1 million in total giving. The foundation distributed $145,000 in grants to 34 local nonprofit organizations this funding cycle.
Symphony of the Magic Dragon: America’s 250th Anniversary Music Celebration
A special musical celebration called Symphony of the Magic Dragon will commemorate America's upcoming 250th anniversary. The patriotic performance promises to blend traditional and contemporary music for the milestone celebration.
KRMS Radio
Osage Beach Student Named to 2026 Who’s Who at UCM
An Osage Beach student earned recognition by being named to the 2026 Who's Who at University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg. The honor places the local student among just 14 recipients selected from roughly 1,300 undergraduate students.
Eldon Man Drowns In Private Pond Near Lake Of The Ozarks
An Eldon man died after drowning in a private pond near Lake of the Ozarks. Highway Patrol troopers responded to reports of an unresponsive person found in the water near the 1400 block.
Power Outages Hit The Lake Area As Storms Roll In
More than 2,600 residents lost electricity across Laclede Electric's service territories during severe storms Wednesday night. Power has since been restored to most Lake Region residents following the weather event.
Flood Advisories And Flood Warnings Are In Effect
Multiple flood advisories and warnings remain in effect for the Lake Region due to excessive rainfall. The National Weather Service issued alerts continuing until 1 PM this afternoon for affected areas.
A tornado touched down in Clinton, Missouri on Wednesday, striking the southwestern part of the city near the Missouri Department of Conservation office. Fire officials report no injuries occurred despite the twister's impact on the area.
Royals Fall In Detroit Against Tigers In AL Central Division
The Kansas City Royals suffered a 2-1 defeat to the Detroit Tigers in AL Central Division play. Both teams have struggled with underperformance in the early season according to sports analysts.
More Severe Weather Set For Wednesday – Tornado Watch In Effect
Another round of severe weather is expected in the Lake Region today as part of a multi-day severe weather pattern across the Midwest. Meteorologist Max Velocity attributes the dangerous conditions to atmospheric mixing causing widespread storm development.
Accident On Highway 5 Sends One To The Hospital
A two-vehicle accident on north Highway 5 near Forest Drive sent one person to the hospital Tuesday. The Highway Patrol reports a 37-year-old Versailles man crossed the centerline, causing the collision that occurred shortly before a separate bus accident.
Reminder – Ongoing Hydrant Flushing Continues Wednesday In Eldon
The Eldon Fire Department continues its annual fire hydrant flushing program throughout the city on Wednesday. The maintenance work started in northern areas and is moving south, then progressing from east to west across Eldon.
Osage Beach BOA Meeting Set For This Thursday With A Large Agenda
The Osage Beach Board of Aldermen will meet Thursday to finalize several development code amendments. The proposed changes aim to update regulations for future construction and development projects within the city.
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