Strong thunderstorm moves through southwestern Rankin, central Mississippi

A strong thunderstorm will impact southwestern Rankin, northwestern Simpson, south central Hinds and northeastern Copiah counties through 6:45 p.m. CDT, officials said. At 6:15 p.m. CDT, Doppler radar was tracking the storm over Crystal Springs moving east at 50 mph.

The storm produced wind gusts up to 40 mph and penny-size hail, with a maximum hail size reported at about 0.75 inch. Radar indicated the gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects, and minor hail damage to vegetation was possible.

Locations included in the alert are Crystal Springs, Florence, Hazlehurst, Terry, Braxton, Star, Gallman, Hopewell, Whites, Monterey, Harrisville and Piney Woods. A tornado watch remains in effect until 11 p.m. CDT for central Mississippi, the alert said.

Officials urged people outdoors to seek shelter inside a building and to secure loose outdoor items. We will provide more information as it becomes available.