West Plains Daily Digest Saturday, July 11, 2026
Ty's Take
The state's flood warnings hit different when you live in hill country—water moves fast through these hollows, and Governor Kehoe's emergency declaration means someone upstream from here already got hurt by what's coming down. Worth remembering that while West Plains sits up on the ridge, the creeks that drain this county run through Mountain View and down into Arkansas, and a hard rain doesn't respect county lines or how well you think your property sits. Good time to know where your drainage goes and whether your neighbors downstream are ready for it.
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Weather Alerts
Flood Watch
Flood Watch issued July 11 at 4:43AM CDT until July 12 at 1:00AM CDT by NWS Paducah KY
* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...All of southern Illinois, southeast Missouri, western Kentucky, and southwest Indiana. * WHEN...Through late tonight. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-ly...
West Plains Daily Quill
SAR celebrates 250 years of US independence
The Daughters of the American Revolution marked a significant milestone celebrating 250 years of American independence.
Gov. Kehoe declares state of emergency in response to flash flooding
Gov. Mike Kehoe declared a state of emergency Friday as dangerous flash flooding swept across central and south-central Missouri, including Howell County and surrounding areas that received 6 to 12 inches of rain. The state activated its urban search and rescue team and warned of additional...
Youth-led holiday effort seeks community support after downturn
Twelve-year-old Layla Bowen is reaching out to the community to support her annual "Layla's Christmas Blessings" holiday gift drive after donations dropped this year. The young West Plains entrepreneur is hosting a fundraising drawing in July and expanding her traditional bake sales to include...
West Plains School Board approves budget amid tightening enrollment, revenue shifts
West Plains School District approved its 2026-27 budget while facing declining enrollment and tightening state funding, requiring officials to defer facility improvements and scale back technology purchases. The district has cut 25 positions over four years to match student population declines, a...
A West Plains area athlete has committed to playing college baseball, according to the report in the West Plains Daily Quill.
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Howell County News
ABC Ready Mix coming to Willow Springs
ABC Ready Mix is expanding operations by opening a new location in Willow Springs.
Sunflower Award given at hospital
A healthcare worker at a local hospital received recognition through a Sunflower Award for their outstanding service and dedication.
Persistence Pays Off: TCMH team helps patient overcome insurance barriers to receive needed surgery
A patient at Twin Creek Medical Hospital successfully underwent needed surgery after a dedicated care team worked through insurance barriers to make the procedure possible.
Ozark Radio News
Marion County Sheriff’s Office joins national speeding awareness campaign
The Marion County Sheriff's Office in Arkansas is joining a national campaign from July 10-31 to raise awareness about the dangers of speeding and encourage safer driving habits.
New MDC hunting Booklets Available for Deer, Turkey, Dove, Waterfowl
Missouri's Department of Conservation has released new hunting booklets for the upcoming deer, turkey, dove, and waterfowl seasons, available at permit vendors and online.
Former Pirate earns Missouri Sports Hall of Fame recognition
Chase Blakey, a former Norwood High School baseball standout with Douglas County roots, has been named to the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame's Diamond 9 honorees for the Class of 2026.
Marion County deputies respond to 83 calls
Marion County, Arkansas sheriff's deputies responded to 83 calls for service during the week ending July 3, including three domestic disturbances and multiple wellness checks.
Kirby and Earl Represent the Zizzers at Boys State
West Plains High School students Dane Kirby and Clayton Earl represented the school at Missouri Boys State, with Kirby serving on the Color Guard and Earl selected as Fire Chief during the week-long leadership program.
Sandra J. Lair, 61, of Ozark County passed away peacefully in her home and will be remembered at a celebration of life on August 22nd.
Mary E. Perry, 82, of West Plains passed away and a celebration of her life will be held July 11th at the Perry family home.
Ray L. Garrison, 83, of West Plains will be remembered at a celebration held at the Historic Post Office downtown.
Ronald Eugene McDowell, a longtime resident known for his spirited presence, passed away in West Plains at the age of 75.
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