Severe Weather Update

As I have been telling you all week on WLBT, our weather is expected to go downhill as early as late this afternoon for some. The worst case scenario is strong, long track tornadoes, destructive straight-line winds, flash flooding, and large hail (golf ball sized and larger).

The Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma has put much of the state under a "moderate risk" for severe weather. I can't even begin to tell you when the last time was that we were put under a moderate risk.

Scattered severe storms will begin to form after 4pm today for areas west of I-55. Any of these storms will have the capability of producing quarter sized hail to golf ball sized hail and tornadoes. Damaging winds could also accompany these supercell storms. Later this evening, we are expecting a brief lull in the action. After 4am Saturday, a more intense event will be developing. Numerous storms will form across the state with all modes of severe weather possible. These storms could form over the same areas which would accelerate the flash flooding potential. The greatest threat of these severe storms and tornadic weather is between 6am and 4pm. After 4pm, the bulk of the activity will shift into east Mississippi and western Alabama. Here is a graphical depiction from the NWS.

The WLBT viewing area has not experienced a severe weather event like this is quite some time. Please be proactive in having a NOAA Weather Radio, staying indoors and keeping it tuned to WLBT. Make sure you and your family knows where to go in the event that a tornado warning is issued for your county.

Many outdoor events scheduled for tonight and Saturday have been rescheduled. I have decided to reschedule my book signings scheduled for Saturday in Kosciusko and Greenville. I just don't want to risk anyone's life and I will be working inside the WLBT Weather Lab keeping our viewers informed.

As I have updated weather information, I will be glad to post it here.