Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for parts of Mississippi until 7:45 p.m.

The National Weather Service in Memphis has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for southwestern Lafayette County, along with parts of Panola, northwestern Yalobusha, and east-central Quitman counties. The warning is in effect until 7:45 p.m. CDT, according to the agency.

At 6:56 p.m., the storm was near Curtis Station, about 8 miles west of Batesville, moving east at 40 mph. The storm is producing wind gusts up to 60 mph and quarter-sized hail, measuring about 1 inch in diameter. Areas in the storm’s path include Batesville, Water Valley, the Sardis/Pope/Courtland corridor, Taylor, and sections south of Oxford along MS-315 and MS-7.

Impacts from the storm are expected to include hail damage to vehicles, as well as wind damage to roofs, siding, and trees. Downed limbs could cause isolated power outages, according to the National Weather Service.

Residents are advised to take safety precautions, such as moving to an interior room on the lowest floor, staying away from windows, and securing outdoor items. Motorists on I-55 between mile markers 229 and 252 and on MS-7 are urged to slow down and be prepared for heavy rain and hail. They are also advised not to drive through flooded roads, with officials urging drivers to ‘Turn Around, Don’t Drown.’

All of Lafayette County remains under a severe thunderstorm watch until 10 p.m., as additional storms are possible this evening. Authorities recommend having multiple ways to receive weather warnings, including NOAA Weather Radio, Wireless Emergency Alerts, and trusted weather apps.

Source: Original Article