Local News: Tuesday July 21st, 2026
Dangerous heat remains the top story across the Tri-State today. A Heat Advisory and an Extreme Heat Warning remain in effect through this evening as afternoon temperatures climb into the mid-90s. Combined with high humidity, it will feel anywhere from one hundred six to as high as one hundred sixteen degrees. A few scattered showers and thunderstorms are expected this afternoon, and some could produce heavy rain, gusty winds, and localized flash flooding. Smoke from Canadian wildfires may also create periods of unhealthy air quality, especially for those with respiratory conditions. Relief is finally on the way, with cooler, less humid weather expected to move into the area on Wednesday.
The Mount Vernon Fire Department is reminding residents that carbon monoxide is an invisible danger that can turn deadly in a matter of minutes. Because the gas is both colorless and odorless, firefighters say every home should have working carbon monoxide detectors installed on each level. Early symptoms often resemble the flu and include headaches, dizziness, nausea, confusion, and shortness of breath. The department also reminds residents never to operate generators, charcoal grills, or camp stoves inside a home, garage, or other enclosed space, and to have furnaces, water heaters, and other fuel-burning appliances inspected regularly. If you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning, move everyone outside immediately and call 9-1-1.
Family Matters of Posey County is helping local families get ready for the new school year with its annual Backpack Give-Away. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, July twenty-eighth, from noon until three at Hedges Central Gymnasium in Mount Vernon. Appointments are required, and families can register through the organization's Facebook page or by calling 812-838-6875. Organizers say the program helps ensure local students head back to school with the supplies they need while easing some of the financial burden on families.
Artists, musicians, and creative entrepreneurs in Posey County could soon benefit from a new seven-million-dollar investment aimed at growing southern Indiana's creative economy. Indiana University and several regional partners are launching what's being called the Creative Economy Commons, serving eleven counties across the Indiana Uplands region, including Posey County. The initiative will provide access to grants, business-development resources, production facilities, and networking opportunities designed to help creative professionals build successful careers without leaving southern Indiana.
A new Indiana law intended to improve public safety has now taken effect statewide. Known as Susan Haynie's Law, the legislation requires the Indiana Department of Correction to notify local law enforcement agencies and registered crime victims before certain violent offenders are released from prison. The law was inspired by the 2024 death of Warrick County resident Susan Haynie, who was killed by a recently released offender. Supporters say the additional notification will give victims, their families, and local authorities more time to prepare when an offender returns to the community.
If you're looking for something to do today, the Vanderburgh County 4-H Fair continues at the 4-H Center in Darmstadt. Today is Senior Day, with reduced admission for older adults, along with livestock shows, exhibits, carnival rides, and plenty of family activities throughout the day. Tonight's featured grandstand attraction is the Three Bar J Rodeo, beginning at six-thirty. The fair continues through Saturday and is expected to draw thousands of visitors from across the Tri-State.