Tupelo, Miss. – A tornado watch is in effect for nine counties across northeast Mississippi, with dangerous overnight storms expected to bring tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail through 2 a.m. Saturday.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch 270 was issued at 6:50 p.m. CDT Friday and includes Alcorn, Benton, Desoto, Marshall, Prentiss, Tate, Tippah, Tishomingo, and Tunica counties. The primary threats include a few tornadoes, hail up to the size of apples, and wind gusts as high as 75 mph.
Residents in areas such as Southaven, Corinth, and Holly Springs are advised to stay alert and prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions overnight. Storms are expected to impact communities near I-22 and Highway 72, increasing the risk of nighttime travel hazards and power outages.
Emergency officials urge residents to charge devices, monitor weather alerts, and identify shelter locations before going to bed. Those in mobile homes or vulnerable housing should consider moving to sturdier buildings before storms approach.
The watch remains active until 2 a.m. CDT Saturday, May 17. Additional warnings may be issued as the storm system intensifies across the region.
