Jackson, MS – Rising rivers and water-covered highways could become a concern across Mississippi as unseasonable warmth combines with a corridor of heavier rain before St. Patrick’s Day.
According to NOAA’s 8-14 day outlook issued February 26 and valid March 6-12, there is an 80-90% probability of above normal temperatures stretching from the Northeast through the Deep South and into the Gulf Coast. Mississippi sits firmly inside that high-confidence zone, signaling highs that could run well above early March averages statewide.
In Jackson, where typical early March highs reach the mid-60s, afternoon readings could climb noticeably higher. Gulfport and Biloxi are also expected to see warmer afternoons and milder overnight lows, increasing humidity along the coast. Tupelo and northern Mississippi may experience rapid soil saturation as warmth accelerates evaporation between rain events.
The precipitation outlook raises a significant concern for the Magnolia State. NOAA highlights a corridor of well above normal precipitation stretching from Louisiana through Mississippi into Alabama and Tennessee. That places central and southern Mississippi near the axis of repeated rain events during the March 6-12 window.
The combination of elevated temperatures and steady rainfall could push water levels higher along the Pearl, Pascagoula and Mississippi rivers. Urban flooding and ponding are possible along major corridors including I-55, I-20 and U.S. 49 during heavier downpours. Residents should monitor local advisories and avoid driving through water-covered roads.
This warm, wet pattern is expected to persist through March 12, with additional updates likely as confidence increases heading deeper into early March.
