Area law enforcement encouraging preparation ahead of severe weather

SOUTHEAST MISSOURI(KBSI) – Severe storms are predicted to go through the FOX23 viewing area and local law enforcement says citizens should be alert, aware, and know where they are going before it arrives.

The National Weather Service strongly encourages citizens to have a weather radio close for weather updates in case the power goes out and have a safe shelter. Bobby Newton is the Public Information’s Officer with the Cape Girardeau Police Department, he says when it comes to flooding drivers should always be cautious.  

“Don’t try to drive through any flooded roadways, even a small amount of water can wash your vehicle away or even wash the roadway away and you don’t know that it’s gone until you start driving through there” says Newton.

According to the National Weather Service 181 people died due to flood waters in 2024.

Officer Newton says they want to keep those numbers from rising “Just remember when you’re driving in heavy rain or rain at all you’ve got the wipers going and your headlights on. You want the other drivers to be able to see you so make sure those headlights are on when you’re driving in the rain.” 

Chris Griggs is the Scott City Police Chief, he says they strongly encourage people to stay inside as much as possible during severe weather as officers already respond to a larger number of calls during severe weather. 

“It does look like there’s a really good chance of some volatile weather and our concern is our community, and we will be out in full force doing our job to protect everyone here” says Griggs. “If you do not have to be outside of your house or outside of your cover do not get out. You’re making our job harder by doing that.”