Five Things You Need to Know Today, Jan. 31

1. Today's weather: The National Weather Service is calling for some rain in the morning followed by some isolated showers. The temperature will fall to around 38 degrees by the evening commute. On Thursday night, it will be partly cloudy with a low around 24 degrees.

2. Give blood: The American Red Cross will be conducting a blood drive at the North Church Parish House on Spinney Road on Thursday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

3. New city Wastewater Master Plan web site: City officials have created a new web site to help Portsmouth residents and business owners stay on top of the latest developments regarding the city's Wastewater Master Plan. People can also receive updates by signing up on the web site or viewing the Twitter feed at #PortsmouthWWMP.

4. City now accepting EasyPark registrations: City officials are now accepting registrations for the new EasyPark device that allows Portsmouth drivers to pay for whatever time they actually park in a given space downtown. People can register online at www.easyparkusa.com/portsmouth.

5. AARP to offer free tax assistance: The AARP will offer Portsmouth area residents free 2012 income tax return preparation assistance at the Portsmouth Public Library beginning on Friday, Feb. 1 through Sunday, April 14. The service will be offered from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Sundays. People should call 2-1-1 to make an appointment and walk-ins are also welcome.