News – Friday, March 6th 2026

The National Weather Service of Springfield issued a hazardous weather outlook, indicating that thunderstorms are expected to form Friday afternoon and continue through overnight hours. The severe storms will be capable of producing hazards including large hail, damaging wind gusts up to 70 miles per hour, and possble tornadoes. There are two rounds of storms expected Friday afternoon and evening. Early indications suggest supercell thunderstorms in the afternoon into evening, before merging into a squall line by Friday night. The greatest large hail and tornado risk will be west of Highway 65 with the supercells Friday afternoon/evening. Damaging winds then become the primary risk with an embedded tornado risk with the squall line across the entire area late Friday evening and night. The probability of severe hail is 15-29% within Dent County; severe wind, 15-29%; and tornados, 2-4%. Remember that if a forecast calls for severe weather: Start preparing now by ensuring you have emergency supplies, knowing a safe place to hunker down, and having a family communication plan. Remember to have plenty of gas in your vehicle and extra batteries, matches, propane, charcoal and firewood. Other tips include having a portable, battery-powered radio and alarm clock, a non-portable phone that will work even if power is interrupted, and coordinating with neighbors for care of the elderly and disabled living alone. For more information on staying safe in severe weather, visit intercountyenergy.net/safety-education. Also remember that to report power outages within the City of Salem, save the phone number 833-703-4811 to your phone as “Salem Power Outage.” Text or call the number when an outage occurs. When outages are reported, they will populate the map found on website hometowngrid.com/salem. 

The Bunker Police Department has released its activity report for the month of February. Officers conducted 47 traffic stops during the month and assisted the county on five calls. Police responded to five 911 hang-up calls. The department handled three dog-related calls, one investigation, and five general calls for service. Officers responded to four domestic-related calls and made one arrest during the month. The department also executed one search warrant. The Bunker Police Department encourages residents to continue reporting suspicious activity and working alongside officers to maintain a safe community.

Join the Dent County Historical Society for a special Fireside Chat with longtime Dent County resident Jim Glenn on Saturday, March 7th at 10:00 in the morning at the James Family Center at 103 W. Center Street in Salem. Jim will share stories of growing up in the New Hope Community to the early bluegrass roots of the Dillard family. Learn about the historic Cumberland Presbyterian Church, the old rural schools, and the close-knit families who shaped this musical community. For more information, contact Deloris Gray Wood at 573-729-2545. Come experience local history brought to life! 

Preschool Registration will be held Wednesday, March 12th, from 8:30 until 5:00 and Thursday, from 8:30 until 2:30 at William Lynch Elementary. Preschool students must be 4 years of age by July 31st. Appointments are to be made by calling 573-729-6611 and are not a guarantee of placement. Proof of residence, shot records, and birth certificate is required.