Warm Weather, Severe Storm Threats Possible in Mississippi and Surrounding Areas

Temperatures in parts of Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas are expected to rise above normal this week, with afternoon highs reaching the mid to upper 70s, according to the National Weather Service in Jackson, Mississippi.

A strong cold front will arrive late in the week, bringing colder temperatures. Forecasters warn that severe thunderstorms, capable of producing damaging winds up to 60 mph and brief tornadoes, remain possible from Friday afternoon through early Saturday morning.

The threat extends to portions of central and northwest Mississippi, northeast Louisiana, and southeast Arkansas. Isolated severe storms could also develop into east and southeast Mississippi. Officials advise residents to stay alert as the weather outlook remains uncertain several days in advance.