JACKSON, Miss. – Sunshine holds strong across Mississippi midweek, but a late-week storm system could break the calm with heavy rain and a few thunderstorms by Saturday. Temperatures near 90 degrees are unseasonably warm for mid-October, keeping conditions dry and ideal for outdoor plans until the weekend shift.
According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, calm winds and mostly clear skies will continue through Friday. The region will stay under a ridge of high pressure before moisture increases Friday night into Saturday. That change will bring a 30 to 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, especially along and east of Interstate 55. Localized downpours and gusty winds could slow traffic and dampen pumpkin patch visits or fall festivals.
Drivers are urged to check conditions before traveling, especially for outdoor events in Hinds, Rankin, and Madison counties. Keep storm kits ready and secure loose decorations or lawn furniture ahead of the rain. While severe weather isn’t expected to be widespread, lightning and brief heavy rain may impact outdoor sports and tailgates.
Sunday will bring a much cooler, clearer pattern, offering a refreshing finish to the weekend and better conditions for leaf viewing across the Natchez Trace Parkway. Next week trends milder with highs in the low 80s and continued fall sunshine—perfect for late-October decorating or early Halloween prep.
Five-Day Forecast for Jackson, MS:
Wed: 87/59 – Sunny and dry; light northeast breeze.
Thu: 89/62 – Mostly sunny, calm morning; warming trend continues.
Fri: 88/66 – Mostly sunny early; clouds increase late.
Sat: 88/66 – Chance of T-storms after 1 p.m.; gusty winds near I-55.
Sun: 79/53 – Clearing skies; cooler, pleasant afternoon for outdoor plans.