Jackson, MS – Minor flooding continues along the Big Black River, threatening low-lying areas near Bentonia and West, Mississippi, as river levels remain above flood stage through midweek.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, the Big Black River near West measured 17.6 feet late Friday—over two feet above its 15-foot flood stage. The river is expected to gradually recede, falling to near 15.5 feet by Tuesday, with flooding impacts lasting until early Wednesday morning.
Near Bentonia, the river reached 22.1 feet Friday evening, just above the 22-foot flood stage. Forecasts predict it will rise further, cresting near 23 feet by Monday night. Flooding is expected to persist beyond that point, with no official end time provided.
At current levels, thousands of acres of farmland and low-lying woodland areas are already inundated in Holmes, Attala, Yazoo, and Madison counties. Residents are advised to avoid flooded roads and remain cautious, especially during nighttime hours when hazards are harder to detect.
The National Weather Service urges drivers to obey all road closures and heed the “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” warning. The next flood update is scheduled for 11:15 a.m. Saturday. Residents can find additional information at www.water.noaa.gov/wfo/jan.
