The National Weather Service in Jackson issued a severe thunderstorm warning Friday, Aug. 21, 2026, for southeastern Rankin County, northwestern Smith County and south-central Scott County in central Mississippi. The warning was in effect until 5:15 p.m. CDT, the agency said.
At 4:33 p.m. CDT, the NWS said a severe thunderstorm was located over Polkville, about 12 miles south of Morton, moving southeast at 15 mph. Radar indicated wind gusts up to 60 mph and quarter-size hail.
The NWS said hail damage to vehicles is expected and residents should expect wind damage to roofs, siding and trees. Meteorologists said the storm was expected to be near Puckett and Burns around 4:40 p.m. CDT.
Forecasters urged people in the warning area to move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building for protection. The NWS defines a severe thunderstorm as one producing hail of 1 inch or larger or wind gusts of 58 mph or greater.
We will provide more information as it becomes available.
