Tupelo, Miss. – Residents across northeast Mississippi should prepare for dangerous weather Friday evening as a severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect until midnight. The National Weather Service warns that storms could produce damaging winds, large hail, and frequent lightning as they track across Alcorn, Prentiss, Tippah, and Tishomingo counties.
According to the Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Okla., the watch was issued late Friday afternoon as a line of strong storms built along a frontal boundary. The storms are expected to intensify through the evening, bringing the potential for 60 mph wind gusts and hail up to quarter size.
Local emergency officials are urging drivers to use caution on U.S. Highway 72 and other major routes where sudden downpours could reduce visibility. Outdoor events may need to be postponed, and residents are advised to secure loose items that could be blown around by strong winds.
Power outages are possible if trees or branches fall onto lines. Families should charge devices ahead of time and have flashlights ready. Those in mobile homes or temporary shelters are encouraged to review safe shelter options in case warnings are issued.
The severe thunderstorm watch remains in effect until 12 a.m. Saturday, with additional updates possible if storms continue into the overnight hours.
