Jackson, Miss. – Residents across much of Mississippi should prepare for a volatile stretch of weather beginning by 3 p.m. as thunderstorms develop with the potential to produce damaging wind gusts, torrential rainfall and localized flash flooding through the evening and overnight hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5) for severe thunderstorms covers much of central and eastern Mississippi from 3 p.m. until 11 p.m. Damaging straight-line wind gusts are expected to be the primary severe weather hazard, though frequent lightning and heavy downpours will accompany many storms.
The flooding threat is expected to increase later in the day as thunderstorms become more widespread and repeatedly move over the same areas. The National Weather Service also highlights a Limited (Level 1 of 4) flash flood risk, with 2 to 4 inches of rain possible in less than three hours in isolated locations. Urban neighborhoods, low-lying areas and roads with poor drainage are most susceptible to flooding.
Communities including Jackson, Vicksburg, Yazoo City, Greenwood, Meridian, Philadelphia, Brookhaven, Columbus and Natchez could experience rapidly changing conditions during the evening commute. Drivers should never attempt to cross flooded roadways and should expect brief periods of poor visibility in heavy rain.
Residents are encouraged to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, particularly overnight when storms may continue after dark. Additional severe thunderstorm or flash flood warnings could be issued as storms intensify through tonight.
