Good morning, Hattiesburg.

Tens of thousands of NCAA baseball fans will arrive in Hattiesburg and Starkville this weekend as hotels fill and restaurants see more reservations, boosting local direct spending by about $7.3 million + nearly $11 million total.

Games begin Friday and may extend to Monday if extra games are needed.

Meteorologists report that warmer-than-average Gulf waters — recorded near Pascagoula — may boost tropical development as the Atlantic hurricane season begins on June 1, so local residents are advised to monitor forecasts for potential heavy rains.

Recent flooding across South Mississippi has prompted local farmers at the Gulfport Farmers Market to warn that heavy rain is reducing tomato clusters and may delay harvests — an outcome that could affect crop quality in the region.

Local firefighters from Forrest, Jones and Covington counties trained in CO2 pipeline emergency response during a session led by ExxonMobil to improve safety and coordination among emergency responders.

Hattiesburg teams lead Mississippi sports as USM and William Carey excel in college baseball + Pearl River College clinched the junior college national softball championship Monday at Brinkley Stadium in Boiling Springs, NC.

State programs also have top national rankings and strong postseason play, highlighting baseball and softball tradition.

Southern Miss baseball kicks off the NCAA regional today at 1 p.m. at Pete Taylor Park while downtown businesses have extended hours and increased supplies to welcome fans.

Local eateries and bars — like Fourth Street Bar — are set to benefit from a crowd boost and rising local activity.

One Man One Mic One Night Tour

7-11:30 p.m. — MpV Lounge & Bar — Not specified — Experience a soulful night of music, humor, and storytelling with Pastor Derek The Change Man Smith.