Severe weather threat returns to Mississippi

Parts of Mississippi are under a slight (Level 2) risk for severe storms, a Facebook post said, with the greatest threat centered across portions of southern Mississippi. The post said the main threat is expected between 3 p.m. and midnight and that storms could bring damaging winds up to 60 mph.

The post urged residents to stay weather-aware this afternoon and tonight, to keep up with the latest forecast, to have multiple ways to receive weather alerts and to know where they will go if severe weather threatens their area. Officials often recommend battery-powered radios, smartphone alerts and a plan for moving to an interior room or basement.

Slight risk is commonly used on a five-level scale that forecasts the potential for severe thunderstorms. Even a Level 2 outlook can produce storms capable of downing trees, causing power outages and damaging property, so preparedness is important for communities in the risk area.

Mississippi frequently experiences severe thunderstorms during the spring and summer months; these events can evolve quickly. We will provide more information as it becomes available.