Jackson, MS – A tornado watch has been issued for 20 counties across northern Mississippi and will remain in effect until 7 p.m. CDT Saturday. Residents in the affected areas are urged to remain alert as severe weather conditions develop through the afternoon and early evening.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, the watch includes counties such as DeSoto, Lafayette, Bolivar, Panola, Prentiss, and Washington. Strong storms may produce tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail across the region. The tornado watch, designated as Watch No. 122, was issued at 9:55 a.m. CDT and extends through 7:00 p.m.
Cities like Oxford, Clarksdale, Greenville, and Tupelo are among the larger population centers included in the watch area. Emergency management officials advise residents to secure outdoor objects, review shelter plans, and ensure weather alerts are activated on mobile devices.
This watch comes during the peak of Mississippi’s spring severe weather season. Historically, April brings heightened tornado risks across the state. Drivers are urged to avoid travel during active warnings and monitor local alerts for updates.
Additional watches or warnings may be issued later today as storms continue to intensify.
