JACKSON, Miss. – After a week of bright skies and near-record warmth, central Mississippi will face a stormy shift as a strong cold front approaches this weekend. Residents across the Jackson metro area, including travelers along I-55 and I-20, should prepare for possible downpours and gusty winds Saturday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, sunshine will dominate through Friday, with highs reaching the upper 80s to near 90—well above normal for mid-October. By Saturday afternoon, clouds will thicken as moisture builds ahead of the front, triggering scattered showers and thunderstorms across Hinds, Rankin, and Madison counties.
Rain chances will climb through the evening, with the highest likelihood of storms after sunset. While widespread severe weather is not expected, stronger storms may bring brief heavy rain, lightning, and gusts up to 25 mph. Outdoor events and football games should have weather backup plans ready, and drivers are advised to slow down during wet travel periods.
The front will clear the area early Sunday, leaving behind cooler and drier air. Sunday afternoon will feel noticeably different, with highs only near 80 and humidity dropping fast—a refreshing change for fall festivals and pumpkin patch outings. The early part of next week stays mild and mostly sunny, with only a few spotty showers possible Tuesday.
This weekend marks the transition from Mississippi’s late-season heat to the first true taste of fall comfort.
Five-Day Forecast for Jackson, MS:
Thu: 89/59 – Sunny and warm; light east wind.
Fri: 89/65 – Mostly sunny; warm with a breeze.
Sat: 88/67 – Showers and storms late; breezy.
Sun: 80/55 – Clearing and cooler; fall air returns.
Mon: 82/62 – Mild and bright; comfortable conditions.