Pontotoc News

A marginal risk for severe storms has been issued for parts of the area this afternoon, with damaging winds as the main threat, officials say.

Pontotoc County officials announced a change in parade routes for the July 4th celebrations, encouraging participation and highlighting the festivities celebrating America’s 250th birthday.

Temperatures will stay hot and humid through the holiday weekend, with isolated thunderstorms possible in the afternoons, according to the National Weather Service in Memphis.

A heat advisory is in effect until 8 p.m. Saturday, with heat index values expected to reach 105 to 109 degrees. Increasing rain chances may offer brief relief.

A prolonged heat wave that started in late June is expected to persist through the upcoming holiday weekend, with temperatures remaining in the triple digits.

Jason Varnon will kick off a music event at Blake Mounce Memorial Park, according to organizers.

Jason Carter is currently performing at the park ahead of tonight’s fireworks display, which begins at 9 p.m.

Ecru held a community celebration Saturday night, culminating in a fireworks display. Local departments and vendors contributed to the event’s success.

Residents are invited to join a celebration in Pontotoc tomorrow as part of the country’s 250th anniversary festivities.

All food trucks are present, and activities for children are organized for a community gathering in Ecru tonight.