An enhanced risk of severe weather Friday is forecast for a portion of the South, including the western half of Lincoln County and Copiah County. Franklin, Jefferson and Amite counties are all under enhanced risk, as well.

The National Weather Service published the risk early Friday morning of enhanced risk, with severe storms likely including damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph, possible tornadoes and hail up to the size of quarters.

A slight risk is expected for the area that includes the eastern half of Lincoln County and Copiah County, and all of Lawrence County. Severe storms are possible with damaging wind gusts up to 60-70 mph and possible tornadoes.

Mostly cloudy skies are expected for the area Friday with increasing chance of showers from west to east as the day progresses. High temperatures in the upper 60s and lower 70s are expected.

The risks of severe weather extend into Saturday morning with damaging wind gusts as the primary concern.