Todd Adams
Meteorologist
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Todd Adams has 30+ years of radio and television experience in the Magnolia State. A native of Pascagoula, Todd has a Master's in Geosciences from Mississippi State and a Bachelor's in Geography from Southern Miss.
His interest in meteorology and climatology led him to hold the positions of Hurricane Planner with the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and Director of Civil Defense/Emergency Management for Jackson County, Mississippi. He was also an instructor of Environmental Science and Geography at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and taught Coastal Science at USM's Marine Education Center.
In his spare time, Todd enjoys the classic car hobby and hanging out with his family.
Updated: Sep. 24, 2023 at 8:00 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - Scattered to isolated showers will pop up through early this evening. Expect several rounds of showers as rainfall becomes more widespread on Monday. Forecast models indicate some areas will get up to an inch or two of rainfall. We can certainly use it! The severe potential is low but be aware of heavy downpours and dangerous lightning. As we head further into the work week, some daytime heating showers will pop up through Wednesday. Then rain chances drop off again later in the week. We should stay below 90 for the week ahead, also.In the tropics, the post-tropical Ophelia continues to drop rain and prompt coastal flood warnings and advisories for portions of the U.S. Mid-Atlantic states. The newly formed Tropical Storm Philippe is a central Atlantic open water storm. Not much strengthening is expected out of this system over the next several days.
Updated: Sep. 17, 2023 at 7:38 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - No changes in our weather pattern, as far as rainfall is concerned. Rain-free conditions over the next several days, with an increasing risk for wildfires. Temperatures will hang out around 90 until a reinforcing airmass from the north drops in here mid-week. Slightly cooler temps next week, to the north of Interstate 20. We can expect the mid and upper 80s. South of 20 will still see temps in the low 90s. The low to mid 60s will be pleasant in the early morning dawn.The Sunday forecast for the Ross Barnett reservoir: A moderate chop with a north wind at 10 to 15 mph. The choppiest waters in the lower reservoir.In the tropics, the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean continue to look clear. In the Atlantic, newly formed Tropical Storm Nigel is expected to become a hurricane Monday and intensify to a major hurricane mid-week, with threats to Bermuda. Post-tropical cyclone Lee is near Prince Edward Island with gusty winds and coastal flooding occurring in portions of Atlantic Canada. Tropical Storm Margot is in the open Atlantic producing swells, affecting the Azores for the next several days.
Updated: Sep. 16, 2023 at 7:34 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - Fair weather expected over the next several days. You will notice it becoming a little warmer this afternoon, with temperatures reaching the low 90s. But the airmass over us is dry. That will help with keeping the feels like temperature in check. It’s not helping at all with our rain chances, though. And this dry, low humidity air keeps wildfire conditions in place. We do have a relatively dry cold front sinking southward toward Mississippi, so it might help squeeze out a rain drop or two, late this afternoon and early tonight.If we use I-20 as a dividing line, slightly cooler temps next week, to the north, low 90s to the south. Most noticeable will be the overnight/early morning weather. The low to mid 60s will be pleasant. Some patchy morning fog will be visible, especially around water. The forecast for the Ross Barnett reservoir, today, calls for a northwest wind at 10 to 15 mph. That will create a moderate chop, with the choppiest waters in the lower reservoir.In the tropics, the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean continue to look clear. In the Atlantic, Lee is a post-tropical cyclone now threatening Maine and Canada with 80 mph winds and heavy rainfall. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Margot and Tropical Depression 15 are both Atlantic open water systems.
Updated: Sep. 10, 2023 at 7:36 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - A mostly sunny sky will dominate the forecast over the next several days. No rain in the immediate future, so drought conditions continue to worsen. That also means no improvement in the State’s dangerous fire conditions. Burn bans remain in effect. Next rain chances will head our way mid-week. Though, don’t get your hopes up too high. We’ll remain at the lower end of probability, around 20 to 30 percent. What we can look forward to is the other impact of that possible rainmaker. And that is cooler weather. Below normal temperatures for this time of year, which should be 89 and 68. For several days our highs will be in the mid-80s. Morning lows will be in the lower 60s. Certainly something to look forward to. In the tropics, Tropical Storm Margot and Hurricane Lee remain on the maps, in the Atlantic. They will not impact the Gulf of Mexico. Hurricane Lee has the better chance to cause issues on the eastern seaboard of the United States, in the form of dangerous surf and rip currents.
Updated: Sep. 3, 2023 at 7:58 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
Not very many changes in our weather as we start off September. The heat is certainly still an issue, as temperatures stay above normal. We should be close to 91 and 69, but that’s not going to happen this week. With the humidity on the rise, some areas will feel the heat index ease into the low 100s again, but it will be brief in the afternoon. We are starting to see an increase in rain chances, though they have been and will continue to be scattered, so not everyone will benefit. Scattered afternoon showers today will linger into the early evening.Labor Day looks to be promising for some rainfall, with a 50% to 60% chance. This period of increased rain chances will hang on through Tuesday. Then, mid-week will bring temperatures back into the upper 90s. A few of us will be back into the triple digits again!
Updated: Aug. 27, 2023 at 5:53 PM CDT
|By Todd Adams
JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - A very welcome cold front is making its way through Mississippi. Isolated showers and storms are possible after midnight, mainly south of I-20 and in SW Mississippi. Should be clear of rain for the morning drive on Monday. Not as hot tomorrow either, expect 96 in the afternoon. Showers and thunderstorms will redevelop in the late afternoon on Monday as well, focusing on areas along that cold front, that will go stationary over southern Mississippi. Future rainfall looks to be in the south as the front interacts with moisture from the tropics. Close to seasonable norms for much of next week, that is certainly good news. But the dry conditions will continue for us. Speaking of the tropics, our eyes are on Tropical Storm Idalia. Which if everything times out correctly, will be guided by this cold front. Idalia should enter the warm Gulf of Mexico and strengthen on Monday evening. Our cold front will deflect it from the Mississippi Coast and push it toward the Big Bend area of Florida. Current modeling suggests a landfall as a cat 1 or cat 2, on Wednesday morning.
Updated: Aug. 26, 2023 at 8:06 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
It is a First Alert Weather Day for your Saturday as extreme heat is expected, again. Peak heat index values of 110 plus degrees both today and Sunday. Heat stroke is a concern with outdoor activity. Actual highs will be near 103 today, which will put us 9 days in a row where temperatures have exceeded 100 degrees. BURN BANS IN EFFECT Open burning is discouraged due to a combination of dry conditions, gusty winds, and low humidity. Please heed any local burn bans.Rain is possible today, just not very probable. A 20% chance for a shower to develop, maybe even a thunderstorm in the late afternoon and early evening. Any shower activity will cease after sunset. An approaching cold front Sunday will increase rain chances Sunday afternoon and Monday. Best chances we’ve seen in more than a month, at 40 to 50 percent. And technically cooler temps beginning Monday, if you can call 96 cooler. We will still be running above the seasonable averages next week, put staying below 100, for a change. THE TROPICS We will closely watch the Gulf of Mexico over the next few days. Shower and thunderstorm activity continues to show signs of organization in the Caribbean Sea. A tropical depression is likely to form this weekend or early next week. Current modeling, on this yet to form system, indicating Florida as the most likely affected area.
Updated: Aug. 20, 2023 at 7:30 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
It is a First Alert Weather Day for the continued scorching heat across the WLBT viewing area. Elevated heat stress is expected with peak heat index values ranging from 105 to 110 degrees. Actual temperatures today Heat exhaustion will be likely with outdoor activity, whether it’s working on the job, chores around the house, or recreation.Many of you are under a burn ban, which includes most all of central and south Mississippi. And there’s no measurable rainfall in sight as we head into the work week. Dangerous heat will continue with triple digits in the shade “feels like” temps reaching 110 to 115 degrees. This coming week we will likely be one of the hottest and driest weeks on record with the National Weather Service.A tropical wave will move westward through the Gulf of Mexico this week. It has a 50% chance of developing into a tropical depression, as it moves into the western Gulf. May bring some rain relief to portions of southwest Mississippi, but the path of the system will likely take it into South Texas or Mexico.
Updated: Aug. 13, 2023 at 6:06 PM CDT
|By Todd Adams
Totally surpassing our seasonal averages of 93 and 72 today. This morning’s low was 75 and this afternoon we topped out at 105. That breaks a record high of 104 set back in 1954. An excessive heat warning is in effect through Monday evening. Extreme heat is expected with peak heat index values as high as 110 to 115 degrees for multiple days. Heat related illness continues to be a major concern with prolonged outdoor activity. The heatwave will continue for the upcoming work week. Similar to last week, there will be some relief Tuesday and Wednesday when a weak cold front pushes south, then it should stall near the Gulf Coast. Rain chances remain slim through the period. But that cold front will allow for more of our viewing area to experience “not as hot” conditions. This will be very short-term, as more heat will return. The very dry air is causing increasing fire danger with hot and dry conditions . Several burn bans are in effect as well as a limited threat for wildfire across the viewing area.
Updated: Aug. 13, 2023 at 7:50 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
By this afternoon, 103 in the shade is likely. Extreme heat is expected with peak heat index values as high as 110 to 115 degrees for multiple days. Heat related illness continues to be a major concern with prolonged outdoor activity. The excessive heat warning will be in place, at least through Monday evening. The heatwave will continue for the upcoming work week. Similar to last week, there will be some relief Tuesday and Wednesday when a cold front pushes south, then it should stall near the Gulf Coast. Rain chances remain slim through the period. But that cold front will allow for more of our viewing area to experience “not as hot” conditions. This will be very short-term, as more heat will return. The very dry air is causing increasing fire danger with hot and dry conditions along and south of I-20. All outdoor burning is discouraged. Also know that some burn bans are in effect.
Updated: Aug. 6, 2023 at 5:48 PM CDT
|By Todd Adams
It’s been another hot Sunday, as an excessive heat warning continues for us. We have seen some isolated strong thunderstorms this afternoon, just outside our viewing area, near Neshoba County and up to Tupelo. I think we will make it through the evening without any storm issues. Partly cloudy and warm this evening. Overnight low around 77. The `Excessive Heat Warning` has been extended through Monday night. Showers and thunderstorms should develop in the afternoon as a weak cold front approaches. Any cloud cover will help with the heat , but we do have a low-end risk for severe thunderstorms. The Storm Prediction Center has us in a “Marginal” threat zone, a 1 out of 5. Main threats will be heavy downpours and high winds. The exception to the severe storm threat is extreme Southwest and South Mississippi. A very brief relief from the heat is coming our way Tuesday, thanks to that weak cold front. Temps will drop a bit for areas I-20 and northward. It all depends on how far this front can push against the heat. South of this system, oppressive temps will continue next week. And even the break we get on Tuesday won’t last long at all. Temps start to climb quickly again on Wednesday.
Updated: Aug. 6, 2023 at 7:56 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
Sunday, extreme heat is expected with peak “feels like” temperatures in excess of 111 degrees. Heat stroke continues to be a major concern with outdoor activity, whether it is work or recreation. Another concern today, mainly for those of your traveling to North Mississippi, will be a MARGINAL risk for isolated severe thunderstorms this afternoon. The main threat will be damaging wind gusts from the Delta over to near Philadelphia, and northward to the Tennessee state line. Isolated storms may pop up as far south as I-20. Maybe some heat relief coming our way next week. A weak cold front will ease into the Magnolia State bringing some thunderstorms Monday into Tuesday. Some of these may be severe. Temps will drop a bit for areas I-20 and northward. It all depends on how far this front can push against the heat. South of this system, oppressive temps will continue next week. And even the break we get on Tuesday won’t last long at all. Temps start to climb quickly again on Wednesday.
Updated: Jul. 16, 2023 at 6:29 PM CDT
|By Todd Adams
We do have a for severe thunderstorms. Those will produce 60mph winds, quarter size hail, and heavy downpours. After sunset, the showers and storms will drop intensity and move out of here by midnight. Expect some patchy fog in areas that received rain. Very heavy rain has been radar estimated in portions of SW Mississippi. 8 inches in Wilkinson and Amite Counties.For your work week, chances for showers and storms will remain in the forecast Monday... mainly in the afternoon and early evening. Heat will once again be a primary weather concern for us. Actual temperatures will climb to the mid and upper 90s. The heat and humidity will likely prompt Heat Advisories mid-week through the weekend, with heat index values of 106 to 110 likely, but it’s starting to look like we will break through to the 111 to 115 threshold and that will prompt Heat Advisories. Plan accordingly if you have outside work or recreational activities on your schedule.
Updated: Jul. 16, 2023 at 7:58 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
Main issue today will be the heat. Not all of us are under a heat advisory, but it’s still going to be toasty. The heat advisory is for heat indices of 106 to 110 degrees in areas mostly south of I-20. The exceptions include Warren County and Hinds County. Not included are Rankin, Madison, and Yazoo. Nonetheless, precautions should continue to be taken if you will be outside for any period of time today. Areas not under the heat advisory can still have “feels like” temperatures near 105.The second concern today will be thunderstorms. Afternoon scattered thunderstorms will be possible with the best storm coverage likely south of I-20...along the highway 84 corridor which roughly runs from Collins to Brookhaven and over to Natchez. Chances decrease further north. A stronger storm or two could briefly approach severe limits with heavy downpours, frequent lightning, and gusty winds possible.Tonight, showers and storms will drop off after sunset. Some patchy fog may develop in areas that get rain this afternoon.For your work week, chances for showers and storms will remain in the forecast Monday... mainly in the afternoon and early evening. Heat will once again be a primary weather concern for us. The heat and humidity will likely prompt Heat Advisories mid-week through the weekend, with heat index values of 106 to 110.
Updated: Jul. 15, 2023 at 8:16 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
JACKSON, Miss. (WLBT) - Mostly sunny, breezy, and hot today, with an afternoon high near 96. A southwest wind will gust to 20mph at times. A Heat Advisory is in effect today from 10am - 8pm as heat indices will climb to between 106 and 110 degrees. Heat exhaustion will be likely with outdoor activity. Rain relief will remain slime over the WLBT viewing area, with a better chance over portions of north and eastern Mississippi.Tonight, a 20% chance for a scattered shower or thunderstorm to occur early in the evening. Otherwise mostly clear with a low in the mid 70s. Sunday we’ll watch a cold front drop in and go stationary over the I-20 corridor. That will bring an increased chance for showers and thunderstorms at 40%. Most of that will be from 2pm through around 8pm. These storms are not expected to become too organized. Rain chance ease off for the week ahead, but the heat wave returns in full force. Actual temperatures next week will be approaching the upper 90s, with feels like temps in the 105 to 100 range. The normal high/low temperature range for mid-July is 92 and 72.In the tropics, the National Hurricane Center is issuing advisories on Subtropical Storm Don, located over the central Atlantic. Otherwise, tropical storm formation is not expected during the next 7 days.
Updated: Jul. 9, 2023 at 8:07 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
This pattern of scattered afternoon storms will continue for us today as a cold front approaches. Expect showers and thunderstorms, dropping down from the north. We are in a slight risk, that’s a 2 out of 5, for severe weather. Severe storms will be possible this afternoon into early this evening. The main threats will be damaging winds up to 60 mph and hail up to quarter size. Localized flash flooding is possible through this evening with localized amounts of 3 to 4 inches in a short time possible. Our high temperature near 89. The feels like temp will climb as high as 98. South southwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Tonight, showers and thunderstorms should taper before midnight, to only a slight chance of rain before 8am Monday morning. But, showers will be likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 8am and 2pm, as the bulk of the stormy weather pushes south. the severe threat also pushes southward Monday. Mainly areas south of 1-20 will be in a low-end risk of 1 out of 5. It will definitely be a period of keeping the rain gear handy and having the free First Alert Weather app.
Updated: Jul. 2, 2023 at 7:28 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
A break from the extreme temperatures we have been experiencing will begin today. Though, a HEAT ADVISORY is in effect from 9am to 9pm. You can expect heat index values up to 110 degrees. This is down from the 115 degrees that prompted warnings over the past several days. Actual temperatures this afternoon will top out around 96, under a partly sunny sky. Later today, there is a 30% chance for scattered showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5pm. We do have a low-end risk for severe weather for areas along and north of I-20. We are at a 1 out of 5, that’s marginal on the risk scale. The main threats will be damaging wind gusts and quarter size hail.Tonight, scattered showers and thunderstorms, through about 1am. Then Mostly cloudy, with a low around 75. Monday, showers and thunderstorms crank up again midday at 50%. Also, a heat advisory will be in effect with feels like temperatures reaching 106, actual temp near 93.Your Fourth of July will be stormy, also. Mainly during the day. Showers taper off to only 20% in the evening.
Updated: Jul. 1, 2023 at 7:52 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
Dangerous heat again today with actual temperatures in the upper 90s, the peak heat index values ranging from 110-115. An Excessive Heat Warning is in effect today from 9am until 9pm. Heat exhaustion will be likely with outdoor activity. There’s only a slight chance for afternoon showers and thunderstorms. A greater risk for storms will be in the northeast part of Mississippi, where there is a low end risk for severe weather.Tonight, partly cloudy but continued warm and muggy. Overnight low near 76 degrees. Storm chances increase to 30% on Sunday, but it looks like we’ll start to see a break in the heat. Though, a heat advisory will continue for us. Next week, chances for showers and thunderstorms increase. And you will notice temperatures will ease back down... closer to seasonal norms of 91/72.
Updated: Jun. 25, 2023 at 7:29 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
Mostly sunny today, with a high near 96. Dangerous heat likely with peak heat index values ranging from 106 to 110 degrees. Heat exhaustion will be likely with outdoor activity. Expect a southwest wind at 5 to 10 mph. Rain chances are close as well, mainly tonight, overnight and Monday morning. There is a 30 to 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, with some of the storms becoming severe. I-20 and northward, our risk is ENHANCED, that’s a 3 out 5, with 5 being the highest. Some thunderstorms could produce damaging winds to 70 or 80 mph and hail at least to the size of quarters. South of I-20, intensity is expected to decrease. The risk is slight, a 2 out of 5. Next week, a few days with 20 to 30 percent rain chances, but the big story will be the DANGEROUS HEAT, with heat index values 105-115 likely across most of the area.
Updated: Jun. 18, 2023 at 8:43 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
FIRST ALERT WEATHER DAY...All of the WLBT viewing area is under a level 3 out of 5 severe storm risk, as severe weather is likely to redevelop, especially during the late afternoon to evening, with large hail up to tennis ball size and damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph the most likely severe threat. Tornadoes also can’t be ruled out.Up to three inches of rain in a short amount of time could lead flash flooding through Sunday night, with the time of greater threat appearing to be Sunday afternoon into evening.Monday, isolated severe storms are possible in the afternoon and evening. A low end 1 out of 5 risk is expected with damaging wind gusts and up to quarter size hail are possible. Dangerous heat stress will be likely over southwest portions of the area with peak heat indices of 105 to 110 expected.
Updated: Jun. 11, 2023 at 7:45 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
After rough weather on your Saturday afternoon, we’ll get a short break today. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92, but the humidity will play a part. Expect heat index values as high as 99. The break ends tonight, as rain chances increase with a cold front dropping in from the north. That will bring us another round of severe weather late this evening and into the overnight.On Monday the front will stall across Central Mississippi and become the focal point for severe storms, as daytime heating leads to storm redevelopment in the afternoon. More active weather ahead next week and several systems will approach out of Texas, bringing the possibility of more severe weather. If that’s not enough, we will be dealing with heat. An elevated heat risk is expected to develop next week.The tropics are now quiet, for the time being. No tropical storm formation is expected over the next seven days.
Updated: Jun. 4, 2023 at 5:44 PM CDT
|By Todd Adams
Isolated showers on radar have been fewer than yesterday, but Monday will hold a different story. While we will still contend with heat of the afternoon showers, additional moisture and instability will increase coverage. Additionally, we will see some of these storms pulse in strength. So “strong storms” will be possible Monday afternoon, with 40 mph winds, small hail, and lightning for a short period of time. I wouldn’t rule out a short-lived severe storm either, producing higher winds and larger hail.We’ll be stuck in this pattern through Thursday, when models suggest a back door cold front. That means the front will be coming from our east instead of the west, which is typically where we would expect our weathermakers. This will increase rain chances Thursday and Friday and bring a very brief respite to the humidity heading into next weekend.The tropics are quiet for the time being. The National Hurricane Center says no tropical storm formation is expected over the next seven days.
Updated: Jun. 4, 2023 at 7:48 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
Another hot one on tap for you today. Yesterday we saw 94 degrees and we will likely hit that again today. Rain is possible in the heat of the afternoon; showers will be few and far between. There is also a chance for early evening Isolated thunderstorms. Some of these could pulse up to strong levels, which may lead to 40 mph winds, lightning, and small hail. The good news is they won’t last very long and won’t be very widespread. Daytime heating storms are likely in the afternoon and early evening through next week. If you have plans on the Ross Barnett today, expect a light chop with northeast winds at 5 - 10 mph. The water temp in the rez is 78 degrees. If you have coastal plans, expect a mostly sunny day with temps in the mid and upper 80s, with a water temperature around 82 near the beaches.The tropics are now quiet, for the time being. Former Tropical Storm Arlene is no more...now just a remnant low. No tropical storm formation is expected over the next seven days.
Updated: Jun. 3, 2023 at 7:31 PM CDT
|By Todd Adams
Pop-up showers and thunderstorms will continue until shortly after sunset. Overall, the weekend weather pattern continues to be mostly dry, with the exception of the convective showers. Warm temperatures continue for us, with most places reaching the low 90s this afternoon. You can expect the mid 90s on Sunday, with rain chances very similar to today. Some of the storms may pulse up to strong levels for a short period. It won’t be unusual to get 40mph winds and pea size hail out of some of the strong storms. And just like today, we may see one reach the severe threshold. This daytime heating/shower process will continue through next week.Be on the lookout for June’s full moon, the “Strawberry” moon. You can catch it tonight, under a mostly clear sky.The tropics are semi-active , this third day of hurricane season. Arlene has weakened to a tropical depression and continues to push away from the United States toward Cuba. Elsewhere, tropical storm formation is not expected over the next seven days.
Updated: Jun. 3, 2023 at 8:16 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
The weekend weather pattern continues to be mostly dry, as far as rainfall is concerned. While rain is possible in the heat of the afternoon, showers will be few and far between. Warm temperatures continue, also, with most places reaching the low 90s this afternoon. There is also a chance for early evening Isolated thunderstorms, mainly developing across the southwestern portions of Mississippi and into the Louisiana Parishes. Warm and humid conditions continue for your Sunday, with rain chances very low. Daytime heating storms more likely in the afternoon and early evening. This process will continue through next week. June’s full moon is the “Strawberry” moon. You can catch it tonight, under a mostly clear sky. Moonrise is at 8:01pm.The tropics are semi-active, this third day of hurricane season. Tropical Storm Arlene continues to push away from the United States. Arlene is expected to weaken into a remnant low today.
Updated: May. 28, 2023 at 7:48 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
A spot sprinkle in the afternoon and evening is not out of the question, but mostly dry conditions will prevail through tonight and Memorial Day, which should help out with your holiday plans. We actually stay pretty dry for several days, but the Gulf of Mexico will open back up, allowing for a southern breeze. That will be a warm, moist air mass, so expect the temperatures and humidity to be on the increase. Warm, moist air will lead to development of heating showers. Afternoon and early evening showers and thunderstorms will pop up by midweek. Memorial Day weekend plans have been washed out for our friends in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia. Nasty weather continues over there as a low pressure system spins in rain and wind, pushing up high water along the coastline and creating rip currents. Heavy rainfall is expected in portions of the Carolinas and Virginia during the next day or so. Hazardous marine conditions are also occurring over the coastal and offshore waters where gale warnings remain in effect. This is not a tropical low...in addition the National Hurricane Center isn’t expecting any tropical formation over the next seven days. As a reminder, hurricane season begins June 1st.
Updated: May. 27, 2023 at 7:51 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
We kick off our Memorial Day weekend with a pleasant, mostly clear Saturday morning. But clouds will be on the increase and there is a chance for some isolated to scattered showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 3pm. Some storms could become strong, with gusty winds and heavy rainfall, in the slower moving cells. Our rain chances are due to an upper-level low traveling from the NW to the SE. Rain will move south and east of I-55 later tonight, making the Gulf of Mexico by Sunday morning. In its wake, some patchy fog is possible for your Sunday morning commute.Dry conditions are expected for Memorial Day and Tuesday, but the flow returns off the Gulf by Wednesday. That will offer up a warmer, more humid midweek, with rain chances. That pattern will continue into next weekend. June will arrive with temperatures returning to the 90s.
Updated: May. 21, 2023 at 6:04 PM CDT
|By Todd Adams
Mostly cloudy to overcast conditions prevailed today, after a really nice start to your Sunday. There’s a slight chance some of us will come across a scattered shower this evening and through the overnight, though the very dry airmass will likely prohibit any rain from making the ground. Mostly cloudy skies will be the overall weather feature through midday Monday. Temperatures will be pleasantly seasonable for the next few days. Normal for late May is 85 and 64. For your work week, increasing moisture and rain chances. A weak surface low will scoot across the area bringing some showers early Monday. Monday afternoon will offer up abundant sunshine. Then the summertime pattern returns on Tuesday. Daytime heating will pop off a few scattered afternoon and evening thunderstorms. By midweek, a reinforcing shot of slightly cooler air.
Updated: May. 13, 2023 at 7:27 PM CDT
|By Todd Adams
Daytime highs will be flirting with the low 90s on Mother’s Day, with our “feels like” temperatures around 105-107 degrees. That’s entering the range to be worried about heat stroke, cramps, and heat exhaustion. Also, over the next couple of days, any shower or storm development will be dependent on afternoon heating which means scattered, isolated rain chances that will drop off after sunset. Some of these isolated storms may become strong. Stay aware of heavy downpours and frequent lightning. But the overall threat is pretty low. Not much change for the week ahead, each day will be very similar to the next. Hot and humid with isolated afternoon and early evening showers or thunderstorms.
Updated: Apr. 30, 2023 at 5:53 PM CDT
|By Todd Adams
We wrap up the weekend on a cooler and drier note. Yesterday's storm system, brought half an inch of rain to the Jackson Metro. In its wake, a breezy northwesterly wind, gusty at times. Temps will be running 5 to 10 degrees below our norm for the end of April. Typically, we should be seeing 80 for a high and 57 for the overnight low. Dry weather will lead to abundant sunshine across the Magnolia State as we head into May.A reinforcing, mostly dry, cold front drops into Mississippi tonight. A few high clouds will be the main feature, though a couple of models are trying to squeeze out some sprinkles for your morning commute. With that said, the work week brings mostly sunny days and temperatures will remain below average, then getting back to seasonable norms as early as Tuesday. A southerly flow will return from the Gulf of Mexico, so we will see a few more clouds build in here and the humid rise. The additional moisture along with brisk upper level winds from the west will give enough lift to the air to pop off some showers and thunderstorms, Thursday and Friday.
Updated: Apr. 30, 2023 at 7:36 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
One of the first things you’ll notice this morning will be the cool breeze in the air. After yesterday’s storm system, which brought half an inch of rain to the Jackson Metro, winds will be northwesterly and gusty at times... up to 20 mph. Temps will be running 5 to 10 degrees below our norm for the end of April. Typically, we should be seeing 80 for a high and 57 for the overnight low. Dry weather will lead to abundant sunshine across the Magnolia State. In fact, we will have a run of fair weather as we head into May. With the exception of a few sprinkles on you Monday morning commute, the work week brings mostly sunny days and temperatures will start to rise, getting back to seasonable norms as early as Tuesday. A southerly flow will return from the Gulf of Mexico, so we will see a few more clouds build in here and the humid rise. The additional moisture along with brisk upper level winds from the west will give enough lift to the air to pop off some showers and thunderstorms, Thursday and Friday.
Updated: Apr. 29, 2023 at 8:37 AM CDT
|By Todd Adams
A couple of storm systems to deal with today over the deep south. Look for increasing chances for showers and storms throughout the day, today. We should be on the watch for some isolated severe thunderstorms. Some thunderstorms could produce damaging wind gusts and hail. Most of this activity should be through here by late tonight or early Sunday Morning. Afterwards, a clearing of the sky on Sunday, and we should salvage the latter part of the weekend. And the beginning of the work week looks pretty good as well. Expect a string of nice weather next week. Even an approaching cold front on Tuesday will be dry, simply reinforcing the fair weather over us. It’s not until Thursday that we will see a southerly flow return off the Gulf. Temps will rise, as will the humidity. Rain chances back on the scene Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Updated: Apr. 22, 2023 at 7:39 PM CDT
|By Todd Adams
Noticeably cooler this weekend, thanks to a stormy cold front that pushed through here late yesterday. Climate normal high/low should be 78/55. We’ll be running a few degrees below where we should be. Increasing clouds tonight thanks to an upper level disturbance. It will bring some rain chances closer to the Delta. Cloud cover hangs in there, due to a Canadian low, a thousand miles away form here. Some energy swinging around that low, along with strong upper level winds from the west, will keep our environment unstable enough for a mixture of clouds and sunshine, and maybe a sprinkle or two as far south as Interstate 20, on Sunday afternoon. Another system will likely develop to our west, next week. Increasing rain chances for us Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. An inch to an inch and a half of rainfall will be associated with the system.
Updated: Apr. 16, 2023 at 5:52 PM CDT
|By Todd Adams
Quite the difference between Saturday and today, with full sunshine with drier and cooler air. Winds have been brisk, out of the north, behind that strong cold front that swept through here late last night. Below normal temps expected for the next couple of days, more noticeable during the overnight and early morning hours. On average we should be seeing highs near 77 and lows near 53. But, with overnight temps in the 40s, you might need a light jacket to start the day on Monday and Tuesday. Fair weather sticks with us until later in the work week. We’ll have a warming trend starting Tuesday afternoon as we climb into the 80s. Thunderstorms on Thursday and Friday...maybe continuing into the weekend. That cold front system will cool us down again, next weekend. The First Alert Weather team will monitor this next weather maker, as it develops over the next several days. Until then, enjoy this nice break from the rain.
Updated: Apr. 15, 2023 at 7:33 PM CDT
|By Todd Adams
Tonight, some strong to severe storms are possible through about 3 am in the WLBT viewing area. Then the storm intensity should lessen. We are in a SLIGHT risk area, thats a level 2 out of 5, with 5 being the highest. Mainly be alert to the strong winds, hail, and heavy rainfall. But spin-up tornadoes can’t be ruled out.
Updated: Apr. 8, 2023 at 6:54 PM CDT
|By Todd Adams
Finally, getting the rain out of here, just in time for Easter. A little more than 4 inches of rain has fallen since last weekend. Lagging behind the rainfall exit, will be the cloud cover, which is doing a number on our temperatures. Our normal high should be 75, but the lack of sunshine has kept us in the the low to mid 60s. But a warming trend will fall into place for us, as high pressure builds in over us. That’s spells out fair weather, for the most part, next week.Though we are watching a low pressure system over the Gulf of Mexico near Texas and Louisiana. As it moves eastwardly, light rain chances increase. I think the higher precipitation chances will stay mainly over South Mississippi. But a few sprinkles over Central Mississippi can’t be ruled out. No strong or severe storms are expected and the rainfall models are indicating less than an inch of rain over the next seven days. We’ll have mostly sunny to partly cloudy sky conditions.
Updated: Apr. 2, 2023 at 5:56 PM CDT
|By Todd Adams
Isolated severe thunderstorms possible tonight. Threats include; damaging wind gusts and hail up to quarter size. A tornado cannot be ruled out. Localized flash flooding is possible, particularly in low lying and urban areas. Next week severe storms are possible Tuesday night into Wednesday. Threats include; damaging wind gusts and hail up to quarter size for southeastern Arkansas, northern Mississippi, and northeastern Louisiana late Tuesday night into Wednesday. Tornadoes cannot be ruled out.
Updated: Apr. 1, 2023 at 6:52 PM CDT
|By Todd Adams
The cold front that brought overnight storms to the area, has moved off to the southeast of us. It brought a mostly sunny day. Low humidity will continue through Sunday, with another fair weather day on tap. Night time will change to rain time, as a warm front backs up over us from the Gulf of Mexico. We will get into a rainy pattern for much of the week ahead. We will continue to monitor for possibilities of heavy rainfall and severe weather. Winds will pick up on Tuesday ahead of a cold front. Conditions then seem to favor severe weather in the Mississippi Delta, bordering Arkansas. That front will be slow to move out and will be the focal point for heavy rainfall mid-week.
Updated: Mar. 25, 2023 at 7:07 PM CDT
|By Todd Adams
The deadly tornado that swept through Mississippi is still being investigated by the National Weather Service. The storm system that caused the devastating weather has passed, but the tail end of it stalled on the Gulf Coast. As a coastal warm front, it will lift up over the Magnolia State late tonight. Storms will initially develop throughout the Pine Belt, from Brookhaven up to Meridian. There is a low end threat for severe thunderstorms. Brief spin-up tornadoes are possible.As the warm front quickly pushes northward, we will see an increase in showers and thunderstorms on Sunday afternoon. The Storm Prediction Center risk assessment includes an ENHANCED area (3 out of 5) for south of Interstate 20 down to Louisiana and across to Alabama. Any severe storms that develop will be capable of producing damaging wind gusts, hail, or tornadoes. Areas north of I-20 , including Rolling Fork, Silver City and other areas affected by Friday night’s tornado are mainly in a MARGINAL (1 out of 5) low end risk area. Nonetheless, severe storms are possible that could produce a tornado. This activity should taper off late Sunday night.
Updated: Mar. 5, 2023 at 6:08 PM CST
|By Todd Adams
With high pressure firmly in control of our weather, on this beautiful Sunday, we enjoyed a full day of sunshine. That allowed Temps to climb above our climate average high (67) to THE UPPER 70s. A southerly wind kicked in this afternoon, so the quick warm up began. We can expect to see an increase in clouds as we head into Monday. Tonight, partly cloudy and not as cool. Expect a low in the mid 50s.Next week: We're still on track for even warmer temperatures as a warm front will lift up from the Gulf of Mexico. That will offer up a low-level flow of warm, moist air over the region. We will see an increase in clouds on the first part of the work week, with scattered rain chances and an isolated thunderstorm. Widespread showers and thunderstorms will increase, beginning late Tuesday, as a cold front approaches from the northwest. We are not expecting any severe weather out of the system, but it may drop an inch to an inch and a half of rain through the period. That front will meander over central Mississippi for a couple of days, then dissipate. A significantly cooler surge of air builds in by late week. Both day and night temps will drop 25 to 30 degrees from Monday's readings. That will be below our seasonal climate norm (66/44).
Updated: Mar. 5, 2023 at 7:33 AM CST
|By Todd Adams
This afternoon we will climb above our climate average high (66) to near 80. A southerly wind will kick in today, so expect to start warming and see an increase in clouds as we head into Monday. Tonight, partly cloudy and not as cool. Expect a low in the mid 50s.Next week: We're still on track for a warming trend as a warm front will lift up from the Gulf of Mexico. That will offer up a low-level flow of warm, moist air over the region. So, we will see an increase in clouds on the first part of the work week, with scattered rain chances and an isolated thunderstorm. Widespread showers and thunderstorms will increase, beginning Tuesday, as a cold front is expected to develop and approach from the west. We are not expecting any severe weather out of the system, but it will likely drop an inch to an inch and a half of rain through the period. It looks like it will meander over central Mississippi for a couple of days, then move out of the area. Significantly cooler weather builds in by late week, with temperatures dropping below our climate norm (66/44).
Updated: Mar. 4, 2023 at 7:08 PM CST
|By Todd Adams
Another cool night, under a clear sky, across the central MS. The mid and upper 40s are close to our seasonal norm. But, warmer temps are on the horizon for next week, as a warm front will lift up from the Gulf of Mexico. That will offer up a low-level flow of warm, moist air over the region. So, we will see an increase in clouds on the first part of the work week, with scattered rain chances. More widespread showers and thunderstorms will increase, beginning Tuesday, as a cold front is expected to develop and approach from the west. Some refreshing news, we are not expecting any severe weather out of the system. It looks like it will meander over central Mississippi for a couple of days, then move out of the area. That means increased rain chances through the week, then a return of cooler temperatures by Friday. Significantly cooler, as we will drop below our climate norm (66/44)and see highs in the upper 50s and lows in the mid 30s.
Updated: Mar. 4, 2023 at 8:03 AM CST
|By Todd Adams
A reminder that winter is still with us, as temperatures this morning started out in the upper 40s. The climate average for this time of year is 44. High pressure is moving into the area, and that is a fair-weather maker. Expect it to suppress cloud cover and offer up abundant sunshine. We will warm a little above our climate average high (66) to near 70 this afternoon.Next week: Warmer Temps still on the horizon for next week, as a warm front will lift up from the Gulf of Mexico. That will offer up a low-level flow of warm, moist air over the region. So, we will see an increase in clouds on the first part of the work week, with scattered rain chances. More widespread showers and thunderstorms will increase, beginning Tuesday, as a cold front is expected to develop and approach from the west. It looks like it should meander over central Mississippi for a couple of days, then move out of the area. That means increased rain chances through the week, then a return of cooler temperatures by Friday. Significantly cooler, as we will drop below our climate norm (66/44)and see highs in the upper 50s and lows in the mid 30s.
Updated: Feb. 26, 2023 at 6:41 PM CST
|By Todd Adams
Clouds will continue to increase into the evening as a southerly breeze brings in the moisture off the Gulf of Mexico. An approaching low-pressure system and cold front from the west may squeeze out a sprinkle overnight, but it looks more likely to bring some rainfall during the day on Monday. Also, expect the winds to kick in pretty good on Monday. Sustained 20 to 25 mph wind speeds along with gusts to 45mph, have prompted a high wind advisory to be issued for Monday from 6AM until 6PM. This is mainly for central Mississippi, Louisiana, and Arkansas. Gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may occur.So, that’s round one of things to look for next week. The Thursday into Friday timeframe will offer up a more robust storm system as a Pacific cold front will reach the Gulf states. It will bring another round of strong winds, but more importantly thunderstorms. Right now, it is looking like all the ingredients will be in place for strong to severe thunderstorm. Severe weather threats include tornadoes, damaging winds, and large hail. Preliminary risk assessment from the Storm Prediction Center has us with an enhanced risk. That’s a level 3 out of 5. It is still several days off and of course the timing and severity can change. The First Alert Weather team will monitor these systems and keep you updated. Afterward , seasonable temperatures return along with a mostly sunny weekend, with highs in the 60s and lows in the 40s.
Updated: Feb. 18, 2023 at 6:59 PM CST
|By Todd Adams
Increasing clouds through tonight will act like a blanket and keep us out of the freezer, during the overnight. The Magnolia State will see mostly sunshine again on Sunday with a few streaming clouds, warming to the upper 60s. You’ll notice “warming” will be the trend heading into next week, with the upper 70s and low 80s expected by Tuesday. Norms for mid-February should be 63/40. We’re going to feel more like April next week. Not surprising, our next rain chance will be mid-week, as that seems to be the pattern for us over the past several weeks. The warmer environment will help in thunderstorm development, mainly north of Interstate-20 on Tuesday. Wednesday and Wednesday evening, a cold front will bring thunderstorms, some possibly severe. A preliminary risk assessment has us at a level 2 risk out of 5. Still several days out. The WLBT First Alert Weather team will monitor the system.
Updated: Feb. 18, 2023 at 8:09 AM CST
|By Todd Adams
Cool and dry weather for us over the next couple of days. Starting out this morning with temperatures near freezing. With a good deal of sunshine expected, we’ll warm to the upper 50s this afternoon. Increasing clouds this afternoon and tonight will keep us out of the freezer overnight. The Magnolia State will see mostly sunshine again on Sunday, warming to the upper 60s. You’ll notice “warming” will be the trend heading into next week, with the upper 70s and low 80s expected by Tuesday. Norms for mid-February should be 63/40. We’re going to feel more like April next week. Temperatures will be close to record highs for both the afternoon and overnight periods. Not surprising, our next rain chance will be mid-week, as that seems to be the pattern for us over the past several weeks. The warmer environment will help in thunderstorm development, mainly north of Interstate-20. While some will likely become strong, right now models are indicating the risk for severe weather is low. And a low risk is a welcome change to the forecast. As always, the First Alert Weather team will monitor the system and update you on the progress and risks associated with this mid-week system.
Updated: Feb. 11, 2023 at 7:04 PM CST
|By Todd Adams
Wet, windy, and cold are the best ways to describe our Saturday. Pretty steady rainfall throughout much of the afternoon. Some radar estimates show 3 to 5 inches of rain in some locations. Low pressure over the Florida panhandle is whipping winds in here, out of the northeast, at 15+ mph. The afternoon high barely breaking out of the 40s. As that Florida low moves east, so will our rainfall. Forecast models bring the rain to an end, across our viewing area, by midnight. We’ll be balancing good news with bad, for a few days. The good news, we can enjoy the sunshine on Sunday and Monday. Bad news, clouds and rainfall will move back in here on Tuesday. Expect some scattered thunderstorms for your Valentines Day. No severe weather is anticipated. But, this Tuesday system will really prime our region with warm moist air, allowing a more potent storm system to offer up severe weather late Wednesday into Thursday. The Storm Prediction Center has a preliminary threat of a level 2 out of 5. The timing and severity may change between now and then. The First Alert Weather team will monitor this system and keep you updated. Afterwards, cooler, drier air will filter in over us, bringing another round of freezing temperatures by Friday night.
Updated: Feb. 4, 2023 at 7:01 PM CST
|By Todd Adams
A beautiful sunny Saturday across Mississippi. That makes it two days in a row! A repeat tomorrow shouldn’t bring many complaints. Though, with clearing skies, light winds, and dry conditions, that will allow for “maximum cooling” overnight. Much of the warmth we got from the sun today, will escape back into the atmosphere. But the freezing temps are gone, for the time being. Our climate average for this weekend is 60/38. We’ll be seasonable tonight, in the upper 30′s. Next week, it’s going to feel like spring, with temperatures in the low 70s during the afternoon. Sunshine will fill the sky to start the week. Showers will return with a cold front mid-week and start to taper off for the weekend, bringing cooler conditions back to Mississippi.
Updated: Jan. 29, 2023 at 6:06 PM CST
|By Todd Adams
We’re continuing to monitor heavy rainfall across Mississippi and the deep south. Localized flash flooding is possible for low lying areas, including city and neighborhood streets. Minor river flooding is also possible. Generally, we’re looking at Interstate-20 and southward. The rain will move out of the area after midnight, with an eastward moving cold front. A north wind will build in, but nothing dramatic in our temperature drop. Patches of fog will develop in the morning and we’ll keep cloudy skies for our Monday, along with a slight chance for showers in the afternoon and evening. Rain will be on the increase mid-week, so don’t put away the rain gear. Flash flooding is on our radar for Thursday and Thursday night. A stronger cold front Thursday will usher in, not only heavy rainfall, but some noticeably colder air. Freezing temperatures return by Friday night.
Updated: Jan. 28, 2023 at 7:04 PM CST
|By Todd Adams
It looks like we will be heading into a cloudy and rainy period for several days.A brisk southeast wind is driving moisture in from the Gulf of Mexico and keeping our temperatures slightly above average.A couple of rainmakers approach from the west tonight. Rain chances increase overnight, becoming widespread and likely, at 100% Sunday.Some embedded thunderstorms will pop off across the area Sunday morning. No severe weather is anticipated. Though we can see an inch of rain out of it,with higher totals south and southeast of 1-20. Localized flash flooding is possible Sunday into Sunday night, particularly in low lying and urban areas.Minor river flooding is also possible. Rainfall doesn't end with the passage of this system on Sunday. More showers and thunderstorms are expected next week.All days could bring some rain, but Tuesday and Wednesday have the highest chances. By the time we make it through the week, we may see upwards to 3 or 4 inchesof rain for the period. Cooler temperatures will return late next week as well, bringing us back to our seasonal average of 58 for the high and 37 for the low.