Lafayette County EMA forecasts heavy rain Tuesday night after weekend rainfall

Lafayette County received between about 1 inch and 4 inches of rain from Saturday night into Sunday morning, according to a post from Lafayette County Emergency Management Agency. Rain gauges near Oxford measured more than 3 inches during that period, while totals were lower in the southern part of the county and higher in the northwest.

The agency said the rainfall was a welcome start but not enough to end the drought. The Lafayette County burn ban remains in effect through Nov. 6, according to the post.

More rain was forecast for Tuesday night. The National Weather Service in Memphis expected showers and thunderstorms to arrive around 5 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, near the time polls close. The heaviest rain was expected from about 6 p.m. to midnight, tapering off by sunrise Wednesday.

The forecast called for 1 to 2 inches of rain, with higher amounts possible in some locations. The chance of severe storms was described as low, although a strong storm could not be ruled out. Low-lying areas and streets could experience ponding and flooding, and wind gusts of up to 30 mph were forecast Tuesday afternoon.

Polls were scheduled to be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday. Lafayette County EMA advised residents who could do so to vote early in the day, avoid driving through water covering a road, ensure they could receive weather alerts overnight and secure loose outdoor items before Tuesday afternoon.

The agency said conditions were expected to dry out Wednesday afternoon, followed by a sunny, cooler stretch.

Source: Original source announcement