Active spring storm pattern: tornado watches, local damage, drought escalation and recovery needs
Key Questions
What damage did storms cause in Shannon on April 29?
Overnight storms on April 29 downed trees in Shannon, Lee County, leading to a rescue on CR300. High winds were the primary cause of the damage. Power outages were reported but have since been fixed.
Are there any active tornado watches in Mississippi and Alabama?
A Tornado Watch is in effect for north and central Mississippi and Alabama. This is part of an active spring storm pattern with potential for floods of 3-5 inches. Tornadoes are possible as the severe weather threat intensifies across the state.
What severe weather risks are forecasted for April 29?
Slight risks of severe storms are expected in east-central Mississippi and north Alabama on April 29. These storms may impact Texas, the Mississippi Valley, and Gulf Coast with widespread effects. Forecasters warn of severe thunderstorms in parts of Mississippi into the evening.
Has the burn ban in Mississippi been lifted?
The burn ban ended on April 30 due to ongoing D3/D4 drought conditions. USDA loans are available for affected areas. Moderate to exceptional drought persists throughout Mississippi, impacting agriculture.
Where are MEMA and FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers open?
MEMA and FEMA DRCs are open in Alcorn, Benton, Lafayette, Panola, and Lee counties for winter storm recovery from January. These sites provide in-person assistance for survivors of the ice storm. Additional sites opened on Monday for recovery support.
What caused power outages in Mississippi?
Thousands were without power due to storms, with over 31,000 affected as of Saturday morning. Outages were linked to severe weather including high winds and storms. Most outages in areas like Shannon have been resolved.
What is the weather forecast after the recent storms?
Dry weather is expected through late May 4, with isolated thunderstorms possible. A Mesoscale Convective Vortex was detected in central Mississippi. The South will see generally dry and benign conditions over the next 24 hours.
How is the drought affecting Mississippi?
Mississippi faces moderate to exceptional drought, with 21 counties designated for USDA primary disaster assistance. The Agriculture Commissioner notes needed rain for farmers amid ongoing drought. D3/D4 conditions led to the recent burn ban.
Shannon Apr29 storms downed trees/CR300 rescue/outages fixed; Tornado Watch north/central MS/AL floods 3-5in; Apr29 slight risks east-central MS/north AL; burn ban ended Apr30 D3/D4 drought/USDA loans; prior Apr28 L3 Oxford; MEMA/FEMA DRCs open Alcorn/Benton/Lafayette/Panola/Lee. Dry thru late May4 isol t-storms.