BROOKHAVEN, Miss.–Storms were expected to form in Mississippi today as a weather system pushes across the state. The worst of it, including a threat for tornadoes, was expected along and south of a line from Brookhaven to Meridian.
A severe thunderstorm was already in progress by 5 a.m. Tuesday in Jones County. Alan Campbell, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, said more like it could develop.
“Given this setup and the ingredients involved, it looks like damaging winds as well as some tornadoes and some hail.”
He said areas north of central Mississippi would get some rain, the threat of severe weather there was not significant.
MDOT was warning people who might be traveling to be extra careful with the threat of severe weather. It is expected to be over by Christmas Eve.
This is from MDOT:
“Keeping the traveling public safe is our number one priority,” said MDOT Executive Director Melinda McGrath. “While everyone is focused on the holiday season, we want to encourage motorists to buckle up, drive safely, stay alert and slow down—especially while driving in severe weather conditions.”
The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts possible severe weather starting this afternoon through Tuesday as a cold front passes through the state. Heavy rain, large hail, damaging winds and possibly tornadoes could occur.
MDOT offers these severe weather driving safety tips:
- buckle up for safety;
- slow down, especially when driving in severe weather conditions;
- allow more space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you;
- brake early to allow plenty of time to stop;
- brake gently to avoid skidding and never slam on brakes;
- turn on lights to be more visible to other motorists;
- avoid distractions—such as cell phone use—while driving;
- stay alert and look further down the road than you normally do; and
- watch out for other drivers—don’t assume everyone else is driving as safely as you are.
The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has warned Mississippi residents to be prepared for “Grinch-like” weather. You can find safety tips from MEMA here: http://www.msema.org/be-prepared-for-grinch-like-weather/.
No matter where you are headed this Christmas holiday, make MDOTtraffic.com your starting point for up-to-date traffic information and road condition alerts. Additional information can be found by calling 511 for on-demand, route-specific information of by following MDOT on Twitter at www.twitter.com/MississippiDOT.
