MT ZION — Leaves flew off the tops of trees as strong wind gusts whipped around a field in Northwest Lincoln County. Down by the Bayou Pierre, the cracking sound of a tree limb or perhaps tree breaking off shattered the tranquility. No birds were singing or busy fluttering through the brush. A lone vulture bobbed and weaved with the winds wherever his wings took him.

Lincoln County is forecast to get severe storms along with damaging winds Monday evening. The swirling winds, darkening clouds and quiet wildlife are early signs of severe weather.

Wind gusts reached a high of 43 mph and sustained speeds of 25 mph Monday according to the National Weather Service in Jackson. No measurable rainfall is recorded yet. Downed power lines and trees have sparked some small fires today contained by Brookhaven Fire Department and Lincoln County volunteer fire departments.

As of 5:15 p.m., Magnolia Electric reports power is restored to Lincoln County customers. Southwest Electric reports 153 customers in Franklin County are without power and 49 customers in Lincoln County are without power. Entergy reports 200 customers are without power in Lincoln County and 62 are without power in Lawrence County. 

Forecast for tonight

Lincoln County is under a wind advisory from Monday at 9 a.m. to Tuesday at 1 a.m. Please use caution while driving. Mississippi Highway Patrol Troop M reminds drivers in the Brookhaven area to change their driving behavior to compensate for inclement weather, reduce speeds and increase following distance while traveling. 

Severe storms are also likely Monday night. NWS Jackson warns the storms could reach Lincoln County between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. There is a likely chance winds could reach up to 7o mph with hail up to a quarter in size. NWS Jackson warns strong tornadoes are possible with this storm as Lincoln County is under an enhanced risk. Since January 1, 2024, six tornadoes have touched down in Mississippi. Three tornadoes touched down in George County, one in Union County and two in Lowndes County.

Flash flooding is possible with nearly two inches of rain forecasted in a few hours. Localized higher amounts are possible with thunderstorms. Low lying and urban areas could be prone to this flash flooding risk. The timing of this risk is Monday afternoon into the night.

Check back for more weather updates as this storm rolls in.