Categories: Breaking NewsDisastersHealthNews

Severe Weather and Pertussis Crisis Hit Memphis Area

A severe thunderstorm approaches Memphis, bringing heavy rainfall and a health alert.

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 we’re 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 74°F, with thunderstorms likely to drench us with a 100% chance of rain. That’s right, folks, they’re estimating between 1 to 2 inches of precipitation. Talk about a washout!

But wait, there’s 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 don’t get too cozy; by nighttime, they’ll shift to north-northeast. As we head into the evening, expect temperatures to drop to a brisk 48°F!

Warning Signs for Memphis Residents

Now, while we’re hoping our houses can brave the storm, there’s another storm brewing—this 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 let’s just say it’s 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. They’re ensuring that the classrooms where the exposure happened are being thoroughly sanitized. Plus, they’ve 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. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on your children for any of those pesky symptoms and to keep them home if they’re 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. It’s 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. Let’s come together as a community to keep each other safe. Keep those umbrellas handy and stay healthy out there!