A WET FORECAST

Plenty of rain is headed our way.

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National Weather Service meteorologist Kristen Cassady said to put that in perspective that's about a month to a month-and-a-half's worth of rain coming in the next four to five days.

A SLIGHT INCREASE IN THE COUNTY UNEMPLOYMENT

Licking County’s February unemployment rate was 4.9% up from 4.8% in January, according to figures released by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. Across central Ohio, Delaware County had the lowest unemployment rate at 4.2%, while Perry County had the highest at 7.1 percent.

PATASKALA MAN CHARGED WITH RAPE

A 59-year-old Pataskala man accused of sexual assault was back before a judge Tuesday. William Harmon entered not guilty pleas to five counts of rape and one count of gross sexual imposition. Harmon remains held at the Licking County Justice Center on $750,000 bond.

MEASLES IN KNOX COUNTY

Two more measles cases have been confirmed in Knox County. Knox Public Health said the two cases involve international travelers in the county. The individuals are isolated and being monitored. No other close contacts were identified.

LMH DONATION

As part of an annual birthday tradition started 21 years ago, Licking Memorial Health Systems employees recently donated money and cold weather items, such as new outerwear and blankets, to The Center for New Beginnings and The Salvation Army. Over 81 pounds of cold weather items and more than $11,400 was donated to both organizations. Licking Memorial Hospital is celebrating 127^th birthday this year.

CLEAN AROUND SMOKE ALARMS

With all of the rain in forecast this might be a great week to do some spring cleaning inside your home. Paul Martin, with the Ohio Fire Marshal's Office, has an important safety tip.

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In addition, Martin said if a smoke alarm is more than 10 years old, it should be replaced.