Jackson, Miss. – A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect for 21 Mississippi counties until 11 p.m. Tuesday, with strong storms capable of producing large hail and damaging winds moving across the southern part of the state.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, the watch area includes cities from Laurel to Gulfport, covering Clarke, Forrest, George, Jackson, and Harrison counties. Gusts up to 60 mph and hail up to quarter size are possible, especially in coastal and southeastern regions.
The watch also includes key inland areas such as Jones, Pearl River, Perry, and Marion counties, where tree damage and power outages could occur. Lightning and brief heavy downpours may impact drivers along I-59, U.S. 98, and Highway 49. Emergency managers urge residents to secure outdoor objects and stay indoors during warnings.
This is the first widespread severe weather event in weeks for southern Mississippi, and it arrives during peak evening travel hours. Schools and evening events may be disrupted by rapidly changing conditions.
Storms are expected to weaken by late evening, but additional alerts may follow if activity continues eastward. Residents should monitor NOAA Weather Radio or local alerts through the night.
