Severe weather

Over the last couple weeks the Midwest has been hit with severe weather, bringing torrential rains, devastating winds and massive flooding.

Southeast Missouri has been especially hard hit, with some areas receiving 15 inches of rain or more over the past week and tornado warnings becoming an almost daily occurrence.

But like many past disasters, this devastating weather outbreak has brought out the best in people. In Southeast Missouri and elsewhere, neighbors are helping neighbors and churches are helping churches.

Still many of our friends both here and elsewhere in the state and region are trying to recover from the damage caused by high winds and flooding, and if you would like to help, consider contacting the Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS to make a donation which will directly help those in need.

It's during times like these we're reminded of how powerful severe weather can be. And while we hope the bulk of the stormy weather is behind us, we encourage all to be prepared should a storm arise and take heed to any warnings issued. One way to keep track of weather warnings is by monitoring semissourian.com or signing up for the Southeast Missourian's weather text alerts to be sent to your mobile device.

Many of us have been blessed to be safe during these storms. Nevertheless, we should all take severe weather seriously and take the necessary precautions to remain safe.