Severe thunderstorms will be possible across Mississippi Wednesday and Thursday, according to the National Weather Service in Jackson.

Isolated severe storms are expected to move south and east through the Delta late Wednesday afternoon and into Thursday morning, then into Lincoln County and surrounding areas early Thursday morning and into the afternoon.

These storms are capable of producing hail from quarter to golf ball size, and damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph. Tornadoes are also possible.

 

Watches vs. warnings

People often confuse the storm watches with storm warnings. A watch is issued hours ahead of a possible storm or event. A warning is issued minutes ahead of an imminent (about to happen) storm or event.

When a watch is issued for severe thunderstorms, tornadoes or flash flooding, it means conditions are favorable for those to occur. Citizens should remain alert, review severe weather plans and monitor the weather conditions.

When a warning is issued for severe storms, tornadoes or flooding, it means the storm or tornado has formed and is about to impact the area, or that dangerous flooding is taking place at that moment. Citizens should take action immediately, seeking shelter in an interior room of a sturdy structure away from windows.

Severe thunderstorms are capable of producing winds of at least 58 mph, 1-inch hail or greater, and a tornado. A tornado is a violent, rotating column of air with winds ranging from 65 to more than 200 mph. A flash flood is caused by heavy or excessive rainfall in a short period of time.

To view the complete MEMA Disaster Guide, click here.