Jackson, MS – A severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect until 8 a.m. Monday for Jackson and dozens of surrounding Mississippi counties, as the region braces for damaging winds, lightning, and possible hail.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, the active Severe Thunderstorm Watch 83 spans 47 Mississippi counties, extending across central, northeast, and south-central portions of the state. The alert also includes six parishes in northeast Louisiana and one county in southeast Arkansas.
Areas at risk include Hinds, Rankin, Madison, Lauderdale, Oktibbeha, Forrest, and Yazoo counties. The line of storms began moving through the state overnight and is expected to continue eastward through early Monday morning.
The National Weather Service warns residents in affected areas to remain indoors, avoid driving in severe conditions, and monitor NOAA Weather Radio or local broadcasts for updates. Power outages are possible due to high winds and downed trees.
March thunderstorms are not uncommon in Mississippi, but forecasters stress the widespread nature of this system and urge caution. If warnings are issued, residents should seek shelter in interior rooms away from windows. Emergency kits and flashlights should be on hand in case of outages.
The watch expires at 8 a.m. CDT Monday.
