The National Weather Service in Jackson issued a severe thunderstorm warning at 5:51 p.m. CDT Sunday for portions of central Mississippi, including southwestern Rankin, southeastern Hinds and north-central Copiah counties. The warning is in effect until 6:45 p.m. CDT.
At 5:50 p.m., the storm was located near Dry Grove, about 7 miles north of Crystal Springs, moving north at 25 mph, the Weather Service said. Radar indicated the storm was capable of producing 60 mph wind gusts and 1-inch hail.
Forecasters said hail damage to vehicles is expected and that winds could damage roofs, siding and trees. The storm was expected near Jackson, Raymond, Terry and Dry Grove around 5:55 p.m., Byram around 6:00 p.m. and Clinton around 6:15 p.m. The Weather Service advised people to move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building for protection.
By NWS definition, a severe thunderstorm produces hail of 1 inch or larger or wind gusts of 58 mph or greater. Such storms can produce sudden, dangerous conditions and localized damage. This is a developing situation and will be updated as more information becomes available.
