Tornadoes and Hail in Mississippi, February 15, 2016

Name: Tornadoes and Hail in Mississippi, February 15, 2016
Start: 2016-02-15T09:33
End: 2016-02-15T15:34
Location: Mississippi

February 15, 2016 · NWS JAN · 50 events in 23 counties and zones

Widespread severe weather occurred with a mix of damaging winds, hail and several tornadoes. The focus of the severe weather was across central and southern Mississippi.

Where it happened

Every event with a place to put it. Tap one for its entry below.

Tornadoes
Tropical storms and surge
Floods
Wind
Hail
Winter weather
Heat and drought
Cold
Fire, smoke and dust
Marine and coastal
Other

Open the live radar over this ground

The toll

Deaths: 0
Injuries: 2
Property damage: $3.2 million
Crop damage: None recorded
Events: 50

Deaths and injuries are direct and indirect together, as the offices filed them. Damage is property and crops in the dollars of the year, not adjusted for inflation, and only where an office estimated it.

What happened

The episode as NWS JAN wrote it up.

Widespread severe weather occurred with a mix of damaging winds, hail and several tornadoes. The focus of the severe weather was across central and southern Mississippi. This event was driven by a potent disturbance that swung across the area during the midday and afternoon hours. As this strong feature dropped into the Lower Mississippi River Valley, a surface low rapidly deepened as it tracked across central Mississippi. The atmospheric response to this was for a rapid increase in winds aloft and higher low level moisture. This combination set the stage for an unstable environment that contained high levels of wind shear which supported and sustained tornado development.

What forecasters said that day

The local office's own words before the first event, as it sent them, from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet's archive of National Weather Service text.

NWS Jackson, MS wrote its last area forecast discussion before the first event at Feb 15, 4:15 AM CST, 5 hours 18 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Feb 15, 4:15 AM CST, 5 hours 18 minutes before

AREA FORECAST DISCUSSION
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE JACKSON MS
415 AM CST MON FEB 15 2016

.SHORT TERM...TODAY THROUGH TUESDAY NIGHT...SHOWERS AND
THUNDERSTORMS ARE MOVING INTO THE AREA THIS MORNING OUT AHEAD OF A
STRONG SHORT WAVE AND A COLD FRONT THAT EXTENDS FROM TENNESSEE
SOUTHWEST TO NORTHEAST TEXAS. A DEEPENING SURFACE LOW IS LOCATED
OVER NORTHEAST TEXAS AND THIS LOW WILL CONTINUE TO DEEPEN AND MOVE
INTO WEST CENTRAL MISSISSIPPI BY EARLY THIS AFTERNOON. THE SURFACE
LOW WILL CONTINUE TO MOVE NORTHEAST INTO NORTHERN ALABAMA AND THIS
WILL DRAG A COLD FRONT ACROSS THE AREA LATER THIS AFTERNOON. IT
CONTINUES TO LOOK LIKE THERE IS SOME POTENTIAL FOR STRONG TO SEVERE
THUNDERSTORMS LATER THIS MORNING THROUGH THE AFTERNOON HOURS OUT
AHEAD OF THE BOUNDARY. MODELS SUGGEST 1000-1500 MU CAPE MAINLY ALONG
AND SOUTH OF THE I-20 CORRIDOR THIS AFTERNOON WITH 500-1000 POSSIBLE
FURTHER NORTH...EAST OF I-55. THE MODELS CONTINUE TO KEEP THE BEST
MOISTURE OVER THE SOUTHERN PORTIONS OF THE AREA WITH 60 DEGREE
DEWPOINTS ONLY MAKING IT UP TO THE HWY 84 CORRIDOR. THE MAIN RISK
CONTINUES TO LOOK LIKE DAMAGING WIND GUSTS WITH ANY BOWING
SEGMENTS...BUT WITH DECENT LAPSE RATES OF NEAR 6.5 C/KM...QUARTER TO
HALF DOLLAR SIZE HAIL WILL ALSO BE POSSIBLE. IT LOOKS LIKE THERE
COULD BE A BRIEF WINDOW THIS AFTERNOON WHEN A TORNADO CANNOT BE
RULED OUT...MAINLY SOUTH OF THE HIGHWAY 84 CORRIDOR WHERE THE BEST
SHEAR/INSTABILITY COMBINES BEFORE THE BOUNDARY MOVES THROUGH.

THE COLD FRONT WILL MOVE JUST EAST OF THE AREA BY EARLY EVENING WITH
THE SHOWERS COMING TO AN END FROM WEST TO EAST. SURFACE HIGH
PRESSURE WILL QUICKLY BUILD IN OVERNIGHT WITH LOWS FALLING INTO THE
UPP34 30S TO LOW 40S. TUESDAY LOOKS LIKE A NICE DAY WITH MOSTLY
SUNNY SKIES AND HIGH TEMPERATURES RANGING FROM THE MID 60S IN THE
NORTH TO AROUND 70S IN THE SOUTH. A DRY COLD FRONT WILL DROP SOUTH
ACROSS THE AREA TUESDAY EVENING WITH THE MODELS SUGGESTING THAT THE
AIRMASS WILL NOT BE OVERLY COLD...WITH LOWS ONCE AGAIN ONLY FALLING
BACK INTO THE UPPER 30S AND LOW 40S ON WEDNESDAY MORNING./15/

.LONG TERM...WEDNESDAY THROUGH NEXT WEEKEND...THE MAIN STORY FOR THE
LONG TERM PORTION OF THE FORECAST WILL BE WARM TEMPERATURES WITH
RAIN CHANCES NOT REALLY IN THE PICTURE UNTIL LATE IN THE WEEKEND.

THE LAST GASP OF COOL SURFACE HIGH PRESSURE FOR A WHILE WILL KEEP
TEMPERATURES ONLY A LITTLE ABOVE AVERAGE ON WEDNESDAY INTO WEDNESDAY
NIGHT. HOWEVER...BY THURSDAY...THIS HIGH WILL BE TRANSLATING OFF TO
THE EAST AND A QUICK WARMING TREND (THAT SHOULD CULMINATE FRIDAY AND
SATURDAY) WILL HAVE BEGUN. TEMPERATURES THROUGH THE BULK OF THE LONG
TERM PERIOD (ESPECIALLY AFTER WEDNESDAY) WILL BE ABOUT 10 TO 20
DEGREES ABOVE AVERAGE UNTIL A STOUT COLD FRONT PROGRESSING THROUGH
THE REGION BETWEEN SUNDAY NIGHT AND MONDAY CHILLS CONDITIONS BACK
DOWN. OF COURSE RAIN CHANCES WILL INCREASE AROUND THIS FROPA...BUT
REALLY SHOULD REMAIN RATHER INSIGNIFICANT UNTIL SATURDAY NIGHT AT
THE EARLIEST. OF COURSE IN THE WARM ANTICIPATED REGIME THERE WILL BE
PLENTY OF SOUTHERLY FLOW AND ASSOCIATED LATE NIGHT AND MORNING LOW
CLOUDS...ESPECIALLY FROM LATE THURSDAY NIGHT THROUGH THE WEEKEND.
NOT CONFIDENT AT THIS POINT TO SAY WHETHER ANY RECORD HIGHS WILL BE
IN JEOPARDY OVER THIS STRETCH BECAUSE IT APPEARS MORE LIKELY MOST
MAXIMUM TEMPS WILL REMAIN SHY OF 80 DEGREES. /BB/

&&

.PRELIMINARY POINT TEMPS/POPS...
JACKSON       68  40  70  41 /  93  36   1   0
MERIDIAN      68  37  69  40 /  98  63   3   0
VICKSBURG     65  41  70  40 /  94  28   1   0
HATTIESBURG   72  40  72  42 /  98  58   1   0
NATCHEZ       66  42  71  44 /  96  29   1   0
GREENVILLE    58  39  66  40 /  98  23   2   0
GREENWOOD     61  38  67  36 /  97  32   3   0

&&

.JAN WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
MS...NONE.
LA...NONE.
AR...NONE.
&&

15/BB

Hazardous weather outlook, Feb 15, 4:45 AM CST, 4 hours 48 minutes before

HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE JACKSON MS
445 AM CST MON FEB 15 2016

ARZ074-075-LAZ007>009-MSZ018-019-025>030-032-034>037-040>042-
161045-
ASHLEY-CHICOT-MOREHOUSE-WEST CARROLL-EAST CARROLL-BOLIVAR-
SUNFLOWER-LEFLORE-GRENADA-CARROLL-MONTGOMERY-WEBSTER-CLAY-CHOCTAW-
WASHINGTON-HUMPHREYS-HOLMES-ATTALA-ISSAQUENA-SHARKEY-YAZOO-
445 AM CST MON FEB 15 2016

THIS HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK IS FOR PORTIONS OF SOUTHEAST
ARKANSAS...NORTHEAST LOUISIANA...CENTRAL MISSISSIPPI...NORTH
CENTRAL MISSISSIPPI...AND WEST CENTRAL MISSISSIPPI.

.DAY ONE...TODAY AND TONIGHT

THE PROBABILITY FOR WIDESPREAD HAZARDOUS WEATHER IS LOW.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...TUESDAY THROUGH SUNDAY

THE PROBABILITY FOR WIDESPREAD HAZARDOUS WEATHER IS LOW.

.SPOTTER CALL TO ACTION STATEMENT...
THE ACTIVATION OF STORM SPOTTERS...HAM RADIO OPERATORS...AND
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL IN SUPPORT OF SEVERE WEATHER
OPERATIONS IS NOT EXPECTED THROUGH NEXT SUNDAY.

LAZ015-016-023>026-MSZ031-033-038-039-043>066-072>074-161045-
RICHLAND-MADISON LA-FRANKLIN LA-CATAHOULA-TENSAS-CONCORDIA-
LOWNDES-OKTIBBEHA-WINSTON-NOXUBEE-MADISON MS-LEAKE-NESHOBA-KEMPER-
WARREN-HINDS-RANKIN-SCOTT-NEWTON-LAUDERDALE-CLAIBORNE-COPIAH-
SIMPSON-SMITH-JASPER-CLARKE-JEFFERSON-ADAMS-FRANKLIN MS-LINCOLN-
LAWRENCE-JEFFERSON DAVIS-COVINGTON-JONES-MARION-LAMAR-FORREST-
445 AM CST MON FEB 15 2016

THIS HAZARDOUS WEATHER OUTLOOK IS FOR PORTIONS OF NORTHEAST
LOUISIANA...CENTRAL MISSISSIPPI...NORTHEAST MISSISSIPPI...AND
SOUTH CENTRAL MISSISSIPPI.

.DAY ONE...TODAY AND TONIGHT

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...LIMITED
TIMING...MID MORNING THROUGH THE AFTERNOON HOURS

SEVERE STORMS PRODUCING DAMAGING WINDS TO 60 MPH AND HALF DOLLAR
SIZED HAIL WILL BE POSSIBLE THIS MORNING THROUGH THE AFTERNOON HOURS.
ALSO, A TORNADO CANNOT BE RULED OUT MAINLY OVER SOUTHEAST MISSISSIPPI
THIS AFTERNOON. THIS POTENTIAL WILL OCCUR ALONG AND AHEAD OF A COLD
FRONT THAT WILL MOVE ACROSS THE AREA TODAY, MOVING EAST OF THE AREA
EARLY THIS EVENING.

(WWW.SRH.NOAA.GOV/GRAPHICAST.PHP?SITE=JAN&GC=1)

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...TUESDAY THROUGH SUNDAY

THE PROBABILITY FOR WIDESPREAD HAZARDOUS WEATHER IS LOW.

.SPOTTER CALL TO ACTION STATEMENT...
THE ACTIVATION OF STORM SPOTTERS...HAM RADIO OPERATORS...AND
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL IN SUPPORT OF SEVERE WEATHER
OPERATIONS MAY BE NEEDED FOR PORTIONS OF THE REGION TODAY.

21

&&

...HAZARD LEGEND...

*SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS*
EXTREME...CONFIDENT IN SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS WITH WIND GUSTS OF
 75 MPH OR GREATER AND/OR 2 INCH DIAMETER OR LARGER HAIL.
SIGNIFICANT...SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS POSSIBLE WITH WIND GUSTS OF
 75 MPH OR GREATER AND/OR 2 INCH DIAMETER OR LARGER HAIL.
ELEVATED...CONFIDENT IN SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS WITH WINDS GUSTS OF
 60 MPH OR GREATER AND/OR 1 INCH DIAMETER OR LARGER HAIL.
LIMITED...SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS POSSIBLE WITH WIND GUSTS OF 60
 MPH OR GREATER AND/OR 1 INCH DIAMETER OR LARGER HAIL.

...USEFUL WEATHER WEB PAGES (URLS)...

NWS JAN HOME PAGE...
   WWW.WEATHER.GOV/JAN
STAY AWARE, STAY SAFE NWS JAN BRIEFING PAGE...
   WWW.SRH.NOAA.GOV/JAN/?N=SAFE
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   WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/NWSJACKSONMS
FOLLOW NWS JAN ON TWITTER...
   @NWSJACKSONMS

...ADDITIONAL URLS FOR SEVERE WEATHER ISSUES...

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   WWW.SPC.NOAA.GOV/
SPC...MESO ANALYSIS...
   WWW.SPC.NOAA.GOV/EXPER/MESOANALYSIS/NEW/#
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   PLEASE CONVERT ALL WEB ADDRESSES TO LOWER CASE BEFORE ENTERING!

In the hours before

Special weather statement, Feb 15, 7:47 AM CST, 1 hour 46 minutes before

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE JACKSON MS
747 AM CST MON FEB 15 2016

LAZ015-016-023-151430-
RICHLAND LA-FRANKLIN LA-MADISON LA-
747 AM CST MON FEB 15 2016

...A STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL AFFECT NORTHEASTERN FRANKLIN...EAST
CENTRAL RICHLAND AND NORTHWESTERN MADISON PARISHES UNTIL 830 AM
CST...

AT 747 AM CST...METEOROLOGISTS WERE TRACKING A STRONG THUNDERSTORM
NEAR MANGHAM...MOVING NORTHEAST AT 50 MPH.

DIME SIZE HAIL WILL BE POSSIBLE WITH THIS STORM.

THIS STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL BE NEAR...
  CROWVILLE AROUND 750 AM CST.
  BAKERS AROUND 800 AM CST.
  DELHI AROUND 810 AM CST.
  WAVERLY AND TENDAL AROUND 815 AM CST.

OTHER LOCATIONS IMPACTED BY THIS STORM INCLUDE BASKIN.

LAT...LON 3255 9145 3255 9144 3234 9125 3216 9168
      3232 9181
TIME...MOT...LOC 1347Z 235DEG 42KT 3228 9171

JC

Local storm report, Feb 15, 8:39 AM CST, 54 minutes before

PRELIMINARY LOCAL STORM REPORT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE JACKSON MS
839 AM CST MON FEB 15 2016

..TIME...   ...EVENT...      ...CITY LOCATION...     ...LAT.LON...
..DATE...   ....MAG....      ..COUNTY LOCATION..ST.. ...SOURCE....
            ..REMARKS..

0806 AM     HAIL             1 SW DELHI              32.44N 91.50W
02/15/2016  E0.75 INCH       RICHLAND           LA   BROADCAST MEDIA

            DIME SIZE HAIL REPORTED ALONG I-20

&&

DL

Local storm report, Feb 15, 8:41 AM CST, 52 minutes before

PRELIMINARY LOCAL STORM REPORT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE JACKSON MS
841 AM CST MON FEB 15 2016

..TIME...   ...EVENT...      ...CITY LOCATION...     ...LAT.LON...
..DATE...   ....MAG....      ..COUNTY LOCATION..ST.. ...SOURCE....
            ..REMARKS..

0836 AM     HAIL             TRANSYLVANIA            32.68N 91.18W
02/15/2016  E0.25 INCH       EAST CARROLL       LA   FIRE DEPT/RESCUE

&&

DL

Special weather statement, Feb 15, 8:42 AM CST, 51 minutes before

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE JACKSON MS
842 AM CST MON FEB 15 2016

LAZ023-025-151515-
TENSAS LA-FRANKLIN LA-
842 AM CST MON FEB 15 2016

...A STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL AFFECT SOUTHEASTERN FRANKLIN AND
CENTRAL TENSAS PARISHES UNTIL 915 AM CST...

AT 841 AM CST...METEOROLOGISTS WERE TRACKING A STRONG THUNDERSTORM
NEAR COOTER POINT...OR 18 MILES SOUTHEAST OF WINNSBORO...MOVING
NORTHEAST AT 45 MPH.

DIME SIZE HAIL WILL BE POSSIBLE WITH THIS STORM.

THIS STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL BE NEAR...
  COOTER POINT AROUND 845 AM CST.
  NEWLIGHT AROUND 855 AM CST.
  LAKE BRUIN AROUND 905 AM CST.
  NEWELLTON AROUND 910 AM CST.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

FREQUENT CLOUD TO GROUND LIGHTNING IS OCCURRING WITH THIS STORM.
LIGHTNING CAN STRIKE 15 MILES AWAY FROM A THUNDERSTORM. SEEK A SAFE
SHELTER INSIDE A BUILDING OR VEHICLE.

&&

LAT...LON 3219 9134 3200 9111 3198 9116 3197 9118
      3182 9154 3187 9158 3188 9158 3188 9159
      3189 9160 3197 9160 3197 9165 3196 9165
      3197 9166
TIME...MOT...LOC 1441Z 236DEG 40KT 3194 9155

JC

Special weather statement, Feb 15, 9:21 AM CST, 12 minutes before

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE JACKSON MS
921 AM CST MON FEB 15 2016

MSZ035-041-151600-
SHARKEY MS-HUMPHREYS MS-
921 AM CST MON FEB 15 2016

...A STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL AFFECT NORTHEASTERN SHARKEY AND
HUMPHREYS COUNTIES UNTIL 1000 AM CST...

AT 921 AM CST...METEOROLOGISTS WERE TRACKING A STRONG THUNDERSTORM
NEAR MIDNIGHT...OR 8 MILES SOUTHWEST OF BELZONI...MOVING NORTHEAST AT
45 MPH.

WINDS IN EXCESS OF 40 MPH WILL BE POSSIBLE WITH THIS STORM.

THIS STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL BE NEAR...
  BELZONI AROUND 935 AM CST.

OTHER LOCATIONS IMPACTED BY THIS STORM INCLUDE SILVER CITY AND
LOUISE.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

TORRENTIAL RAINFALL IS ALSO OCCURRING WITH THIS STORM...AND MAY LEAD
TO FLASH FLOODING. DO NOT DRIVE YOUR VEHICLE THROUGH FLOODED
ROADWAYS.

HIGH WINDS CAN BRING DOWN TREES AND LARGE LIMBS RESULTING IN SERIOUS
INJURY OR PROPERTY DAMAGE. EXERCISE EXTREME CAUTION WHEN OUTDOORS
DURING SUCH STRONG WINDS...AND BE ESPECIALLY AWARE OF OLDER TREES.

FREQUENT CLOUD TO GROUND LIGHTNING IS OCCURRING WITH THIS STORM.
LIGHTNING CAN STRIKE 15 MILES AWAY FROM A THUNDERSTORM. SEEK A SAFE
SHELTER INSIDE A BUILDING OR VEHICLE.

&&

LAT...LON 3314 9033 3309 9035 3312 9038 3308 9037
      3311 9043 3305 9043 3305 9039 3301 9037
      3301 9044 3298 9045 3294 9066 3310 9070
      3310 9068 3316 9069 3327 9045 3324 9037
      3328 9038 3331 9034
TIME...MOT...LOC 1521Z 247DEG 39KT 3310 9060

19

Special weather statement, Feb 15, 9:25 AM CST, 8 minutes before

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE JACKSON MS
925 AM CST MON FEB 15 2016

LAZ025-MSZ047-053-151615-
TENSAS LA-WARREN MS-CLAIBORNE MS-
925 AM CST MON FEB 15 2016

...A STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL AFFECT NORTHEASTERN TENSAS PARISH...
SOUTHWESTERN WARREN AND CENTRAL CLAIBORNE COUNTIES UNTIL 1015 AM
CST...

AT 925 AM CST...METEOROLOGISTS WERE TRACKING A STRONG THUNDERSTORM
OVER LAKE BRUIN...OR 28 MILES SOUTH OF TALLULAH...MOVING NORTHEAST AT
35 MPH.

DIME SIZE HAIL AND WINDS IN EXCESS OF 40 MPH WILL BE POSSIBLE WITH
THIS STORM.

THIS STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL BE NEAR...
  YOKENA AROUND 1005 AM CST.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

FREQUENT CLOUD TO GROUND LIGHTNING IS OCCURRING WITH THIS STORM.
LIGHTNING CAN STRIKE 15 MILES AWAY FROM A THUNDERSTORM. SEEK A SAFE
SHELTER INSIDE A BUILDING OR VEHICLE.

&&

LAT...LON 3221 9101 3219 9100 3221 9098 3222 9098
      3223 9096 3201 9086 3187 9127 3204 9136
TIME...MOT...LOC 1525Z 242DEG 29KT 3199 9124

JC

The radar

The Jackson/Brandon,MS radar (KDGX), 52 km away, was scanning. The volume nearest the first event began at 15:32 UTC.

Open the radar archive at this moment

Event by event

36 thunderstorm wind, 9 tornado, 5 hail. Local standard time, as filed.

Hail, Simpson

When: February 15, 9:33 AM CST
Where: Simpson County, Magee
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 31.870, -89.730

Nickel to quarter size hail fell.

Hail, Smith

When: February 15, 9:43 AM CST
Where: Smith County, 2.69 mi E of Center Ridge
Measured: 0.88 in hail
Reported by: Trained Spotter
Coordinates: 31.931, -89.434

Dime to nickel sized hail fell along Smith County Road 19.

Hail, Jasper

When: February 15, 9:55 AM CST
Where: Jasper County, 1.36 mi ENE of Bay Spgs
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Social Media
Coordinates: 31.980, -89.280

Hail, Smith

When: February 15, 10:05 AM CST
Where: Smith County, 1.38 mi N of Center Ridge
Measured: 1 in hail
Reported by: Broadcast Media
Coordinates: 31.950, -89.480

Thunderstorm Wind, Claiborne

When: February 15, 10:15 AM CST
Where: Claiborne County, 1.89 mi ENE of Rocky Spgs
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.110, -90.790

A tree and a powerline were blown down along Chapman Ranch Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Hinds

When: February 15, 10:33 AM CST to 11:02 AM CST
Where: Hinds County, 2.38 mi SSE of Hubbard to 2.81 mi NE of Learned
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.190, -90.650

A tree was blown down along Old Port Gibson Road, Learned Road and also on Oakley Road.

Tornado, Hinds

When: February 15, 11:00 AM CST to 11:01 AM CST
Where: Hinds County, 3.29 mi NNE of Clinton to 3.71 mi NNE of Clinton
Rating: EF0
Path length: 0.52 mi
Path width: 50 yd
Property damage: $3,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 32.376, -90.317

This weak and brief tornado touched down in the Southern Oaks subdivision just off Pinehaven Drive. A few cedar trees were snapped and the top of one hardwood tree was blown off. Additional large limbs were broken. The tornado continued to the northeast into a wooded area before lifting. A brief tornadic debris signature (TDS) was observed as well. The maximum estimated wind speed was 75mph.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jefferson

When: February 15, 11:05 AM CST
Where: Jefferson County, 1.76 mi E of Stumpley
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $3,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 31.630, -91.100

A tree was blown down on Stampley Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Hinds

When: February 15, 11:08 AM CST
Where: Hinds County, 0.18 mi WSW of Cynthia
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $6,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.399, -90.253

Trees were blown down along Cynthia Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Franklin

When: February 15, 11:10 AM CST
Where: Franklin County, 1.62 mi NNE of Hamburg
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $105,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 31.602, -91.060

A mobile home was destroyed on Norton Road. Five homes had minor damage. Some trees were snapped.

Thunderstorm Wind, Madison

When: February 15, 11:16 AM CST
Where: Madison County, 2.2 mi E of Rocky Hill
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $3,000
Reported by: Broadcast Media
Coordinates: 32.424, -90.183

A tree was blown down along Old Agency Road near Mockingbird Lane.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jefferson

When: February 15, 11:37 AM CST
Where: Jefferson County, 0.61 mi SSE of Union Church
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $3,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 31.672, -90.796

A tree was blown down on Cupit Road.

Hail, Kemper

When: February 15, 11:55 AM CST
Where: Kemper County, 1.88 mi ESE of Oak Grove
Measured: 0.75 in hail
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.660, -88.550

Tornado, Copiah

When: February 15, 12:10 PM CST to 12:34 PM CST
Where: Copiah County, 0.31 mi SSW of Wesson to 1.51 mi ESE of Rockport
Rating: EF2
Path length: 16.6 mi
Path width: 250 yd
Continued into: Simpson, Ms (JAN)
Property damage: $900,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 31.696, -90.402

The tornado began along Highway 51 just southwest of Wesson. As it tracked northeast, it snapped many hardwood trees. It also caused roof damage to Wesson Attendance Center as well as downing trees that fell on employee cars. As the tornado continued across the southern end of Beauregard, it continued to down trees with one falling on a house. Another house had minor roof damage. As the tornado passed south-southeast of Sand Hill, it became more intense with numerous trees snapped along Beauregard Road. The worst damage occurred on Sand Hill Road, where a home was obliterated. This is where the tornado reached its most intense point and winds reached 130 mph. Another home suffered significant roof damage, a shop was destroyed and many trees were blown down. The tornado tracked northeast, downing numerous trees and causing roof damage to a mobile home on Beauregard Road. The tornado then weakened slightly as it tracked into Simpson County and caused roof damage to two homes on Rockport Road. EF1 type damage was found in the Rockport area, which included snapped trees and some minor roof damage along Highway 27, Camp Lane, and Lower Rockport Road. Minor tree damage occurred as the tornado tracked south of Bridgeport. It reintensified near Bushtown Shivers Road and snapped and uprooted softwood trees as it tracked across Highway 28 south of Pinola. The tornado finally lifted near Tom Coke Road on the eastern side of Pinola. The total path length for this tornado was 30.8 miles. The maximum estimated wind speed was 130mph.

Tornado, Leake

When: February 15, 12:15 PM CST to 12:19 PM CST
Where: Leake County, 2.83 mi SSW of Conway to 1.54 mi S of Conway
Rating: EF1
Path length: 1.88 mi
Path width: 300 yd
Property damage: $800,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 32.816, -89.606

The tornado began just to the west of Highway 429, snapping some trees near Koli Creek. The tornado then tracked northeast along Cooper Road. In this area, it caused heavy tree damage along the path, snapping or uprooting numerous trees. Also along this road, three chicken houses were flattened and another was damaged. A home suffered minor roof damage. The tornado crossed Waggoner Road and lifted in an adjacent wooded area. The maximum estimated wind speed was 110mph.

Thunderstorm Wind, Rankin

When: February 15, 12:15 PM CST
Where: Rankin County, 2.35 mi WNW of Rook Hill
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $3,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 32.194, -89.966

A tree was blown down at 244 Melissa Avenue.

Tornado, Simpson

When: February 15, 12:34 PM CST to 12:57 PM CST
Where: Simpson County, 2.83 mi WNW of Schley to 2.24 mi ENE of Pinola
Rating: EF1
Path length: 13.74 mi
Path width: 100 yd
Property damage: $60,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 31.795, -90.145

The tornado began along Highway 51 just southwest of Wesson. As it tracked northeast, it snapped many hardwood trees and also caused roof damage to Wesson Attendance Center. The tornado also downing trees that fell onto employee cars. As the tornado continued across the southern end of Beauregard, it continued to down trees with one falling on a house. As the tornado passed south-southeast of Sand Hill, it became more intense with numerous trees snapped along Beauregard Road. The worst damage occurred on Sand Hill Road, where a home was destroyed. This is where the tornado reached its most intense point with winds reaching 130 mph. Another home suffered significant roof damage, a shop was destroyed and many trees were blown down. The tornado tracked northeast, downing numerous trees and causing roof damage to a mobile home on Beauregard Road. The tornado then weakened slightly as it tracked into Simpson County and caused roof damage to two homes on Rockport Road. EF1 type damage was found in the Rockport area, which included snapped trees and some minor roof damage along Highway 27, Camp Lane, and Lower Rockport Road. Minor tree damage occurred as the tornado tracked south of Bridgeport. It re-intensified near Bushtown Shivers Road and snapped and uprooted softwood trees as it tracked across Highway 28 south of Pinola. The tornado finally lifted near Tom Coke Road on the eastern side of Pinola. The total path length for this tornado was 30.8 miles. The maximum estimated winds were 130mph, which occurred in Copiah County. The maximum estimated winds in Simpson County were 95mph. The maximum path width for this entire tornado was 250 yards.

Thunderstorm Wind, Scott

When: February 15, 12:40 PM CST
Where: Scott County, 0.69 mi N of Morton
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $3,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 32.360, -89.670

A tree was blown down at 1060 Highway 13 North.

Thunderstorm Wind, Leake

When: February 15, 12:41 PM CST
Where: Leake County, 1.5 mi NNE of Walnut Grove
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.600, -89.460

Trees and powerlines were blown down in Walnut Grove.

Tornado, Winston

When: February 15, 12:45 PM CST to 12:50 PM CST
Where: Winston County, 0.62 mi WNW of Hinze to 2.22 mi NE of Hinze
Rating: EF1
Path length: 2.51 mi
Path width: 200 yd
Property damage: $45,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 33.035, -89.279

The tornado began west of Hinze-Rural Hill Road near Lobutcha Creek. It snapped several softwood trees and uprooted a few hardwood trees. The tornado then tracked along Hinze Road where it continued to cause tree damage before lifting. The maximum estimated wind speed was 105mph.

Thunderstorm Wind, Neshoba

When: February 15, 1:14 PM CST
Where: Neshoba County, 2.41 mi N of Linwood
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.705, -89.147

Trees were blown down along Highway 15.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lincoln

When: February 15, 1:18 PM CST to 1:21 PM CST
Where: Lincoln County, 5.89 mi ENE of Caseyville to 6.03 mi NW of New Sight
Measured: 83 kt (96 mph) estimated gust
Injuries: 2 direct, 0 indirect
Property damage: $70,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 31.690, -90.573

An intense microburst occurred along the Lincoln/Copiah County line. Damage occurred just west of Jackson-Liberty Road and north of Norton-Assink Road. Here a mobile home rolled multiple times and was destroyed. A couple of minor injuries occurred at this location. Other damage that was noted was many uprooted trees along nearly a 3 mile swath. All of the uprooted trees were blown down to the east-northeast. Along Old Red Star Road, the roof of a metal shed was blown off and tin was blown into a tree along with some tin peeled off the corner of a roof of another home. The width of this damage was nearly 1 mile wide with max winds around 95 mph. The damage ended near Foster Lane near the county line.

Thunderstorm Wind, Copiah

When: February 15, 1:21 PM CST to 1:23 PM CST
Where: Copiah County, 2.52 mi SE of Peetsville to 3.2 mi ESE of Peetsville
Measured: 83 kt (96 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 31.699, -90.535

An intense microburst occurred along the Lincoln/Copiah County line. Damage occurred just west of Jackson-Liberty Road and north of Norton-Assink Road. Here a mobile home was rolled multiple times and destroyed. A couple minor injuries occurred at this location. Other damage that was noted was many uprooted trees along nearly a 3 mile swath. All of the uprooted trees were blown down to the east-northeast. Along Old Red Star Road, the roof of a metal shed was blown off and tin was blown into a tree along with some tin peeled off the corner of a roof of another home. The width of this damage was nearly 1 mile wide with max winds around 95 mph. The damage ended near Foster Lane near the county line.

Tornado, Smith

When: February 15, 1:24 PM CST to 1:27 PM CST
Where: Smith County, 2.45 mi NW of Cohay to 2.92 mi N of Cohay
Rating: EF0
Path length: 2.1 mi
Path width: 100 yd
Property damage: $15,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 31.947, -89.627

This brief tornado touched down on Smith County Road 114 in western Smith County. It crossed Georgia Pacific Land and ended back on County Road 114 near Clear Creek. A few trees were downed along the path. The maximum estimated wind speed was 75mph.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lincoln

When: February 15, 1:30 PM CST
Where: Lincoln County, 3.14 mi NE of New Sight
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 31.680, -90.410

Several trees were blown down and blocked the road near Copiah-Lincoln Community College.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lincoln

When: February 15, 1:30 PM CST
Where: Lincoln County, 0.84 mi SE of Brookhaven
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Newspaper
Coordinates: 31.570, -90.442

A tree fell onto a home on Fulton Street.

Tornado, Smith

When: February 15, 1:43 PM CST to 1:47 PM CST
Where: Smith County, 2.49 mi SW of Sylvarena to 0.62 mi ESE of Sylvarena
Rating: EF1
Path length: 2.72 mi
Path width: 250 yd
Property damage: $250,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 31.993, -89.409

The tornado began near Smith County Road 84, where some softwood trees were uprooted. It then tracked northeast into Sylvarena. Here the tornado damaged several structures along Highway 18, including ripping off a gas station canopy and blowing down an antenna. Homes also had roof damage and were damaged by uprooted trees. The tornado continued northeast and lifted amongst some trees south of Ted-Sylvarena Road. The maximum estimated wind speed was 105mph.

Tornado, Smith

When: February 15, 1:52 PM CST to 1:54 PM CST
Where: Smith County, 0.66 mi W of Ted to 1.07 mi NNE of Ted
Rating: EF1
Path length: 1.45 mi
Path width: 100 yd
Continued into: Jasper, Ms (JAN)
Property damage: $8,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 32.051, -89.341

The tornado began just west of Smith County Road 107 where it snapped some trees. It then crossed into Jasper County, continuing to uproot and snap trees. The tornado entered Montrose where numerous trees were either snapped or uprooted. There was also damage to several buildings in Montrose, including roof damage to a church as well as damage to houses due to fallen trees. The tornado was at its widest point in Montrose. The tornado continued northeast, following Highway 15, where it snapped and uprooted trees through the remainder of its path, with a few falling on homes. The tornado lifted just north of the Highway 15 intersection with Jasper County Road 24. The total path length for this tornado was 14.7 miles. The maximum width for this tornado was 350 yards and maximum estimated winds were 110mph, which occurred in Jasper County. The highest winds estimated in Smith County was 90mph.

Tornado, Jasper

When: February 15, 1:54 PM CST to 2:11 PM CST
Where: Jasper County, 3.93 mi NW of Hamlet to 0.6 mi ESE of Baxter
Rating: EF1
Path length: 13.17 mi
Path width: 350 yd
Property damage: $600,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 32.064, -89.322

Thunderstorm Wind, Jefferson Davis

When: February 15, 2:02 PM CST to 2:10 PM CST
Where: Jefferson Davis County, 2.24 mi NE of Hebron to 4.7 mi E of Gwinville
Measured: 60 kt (69 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $25,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 31.750, -89.920

Numerous trees were blown down around the county. Trees were blown down near Hebron, including on White Sands Road, Sonat Road, and Will Barber Road. Trees were also blown down near Clem on Keys Road, Roberts Road and Clem School Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jefferson Davis

When: February 15, 2:10 PM CST to 2:15 PM CST
Where: Jefferson Davis County, 1.36 mi ESE of Prentiss to 2.76 mi S of Mt Carmel
Measured: 53 kt (61 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 31.590, -89.860

A tree was blown down on JE Johnson Avenue and trees were blown down on Jones Lane near Prentiss.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jefferson Davis

When: February 15, 2:15 PM CST to 2:20 PM CST
Where: Jefferson Davis County, 4.04 mi SW of Carson to 1.27 mi SE of Carson
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 31.490, -89.850

Trees were blown down on Smith Lane and on Chocktaw Road near Carson.

Thunderstorm Wind, Newton

When: February 15, 2:15 PM CST
Where: Newton County, 4.46 mi SE of Calhoun
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.230, -89.090

A few trees and limbs were blown down just inside Newton County from Jasper County.

Thunderstorm Wind, Forrest

When: February 15, 2:20 PM CST
Where: Forrest County, 0.91 mi SE of Hattiesburg
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $20,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 31.310, -89.310

Trees were blown down on houses on Elizabeth Avenue and Dixie Avenue. Another small tree blocked Bonhomie Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Smith

When: February 15, 2:28 PM CST
Where: Smith County, 1.38 mi N of Center Ridge
Measured: 54 kt (62 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $8,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 31.950, -89.480

Trees and large limbs were blown down in the Center Ridge area.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jones

When: February 15, 2:32 PM CST to 2:36 PM CST
Where: Jones County, 2.45 mi WNW of (Lul)hesler Fld Laur to 3 mi NNE of Tuckers Crossing
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $14,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 31.680, -89.210

A carport was blown over on Garden Road southwest of Laurel. A limb and powerline were blown down on a house on North 5th Avenue in Laurel. A tree was also blown down in the road on Lower Myrick Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Covington

When: February 15, 2:35 PM CST
Where: Covington County, 2.35 mi E of Collins
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 31.630, -89.510

A tree and powerlines were blown down on Ramsey McQueen Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Covington

When: February 15, 2:39 PM CST
Where: Covington County, 0.53 mi S of Gandsi
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $7,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 31.562, -89.500

A large limb caused minor roof damage to a home on Bobby Beasley Street.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jones

When: February 15, 2:40 PM CST
Where: Jones County, 1.18 mi W of Blodgett
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $4,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 31.470, -89.000

A tree was blown down across Highway 15 South near the Perry County line.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jones

When: February 15, 2:40 PM CST
Where: Jones County, 0.76 mi WNW of Soso
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $4,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 31.753, -89.282

A tree was blown down at Frosty Hinton Road and Josh Hinton Road near Soso.

Thunderstorm Wind, Newton

When: February 15, 2:45 PM CST
Where: Newton County, 1.5 mi NNW of Newton Okeefe Arpt
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.340, -89.140

A large pine tree was blown down on MS Highway 15.

Thunderstorm Wind, Newton

When: February 15, 2:50 PM CST
Where: Newton County, 1.02 mi ENE of Decatur
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Law Enforcement
Coordinates: 32.435, -89.103

A roof was damaged along MS Highway 503. Scattered trees were also blown down across the county.

Thunderstorm Wind, Jasper

When: February 15, 2:52 PM CST
Where: Jasper County, 1.42 mi WSW of Hero
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $5,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 32.216, -89.094

Scattered trees and large limbs were blown down along Mississippi Highway 504 in far northern Jasper County.

Thunderstorm Wind, Newton

When: February 15, 2:54 PM CST
Where: Newton County, 4.46 mi SE of Calhoun
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $15,000
Reported by: NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates: 32.230, -89.090

Tin was blown off and scattered through a field. Numerous large limbs and some trees were also blown down in far southern Newton County.

Thunderstorm Wind, Newton

When: February 15, 3:00 PM CST
Where: Newton County, Duffee
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $8,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.480, -88.930

A large tree limb was blown down and fell onto a home, which caused minor damage.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lauderdale

When: February 15, 3:20 PM CST
Where: Lauderdale County, 2.57 mi SSE of Okatibbee
Measured: 55 kt (63 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $15,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.269, -88.706

Power lines were blown down at Highway 145 and TM Jones Road.

Thunderstorm Wind, Clarke

When: February 15, 3:20 PM CST
Where: Clarke County, 0.91 mi SE of Enterprise
Measured: 52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.170, -88.810

Trees were blown down in the Enterprise area. A large tree was blown down and blocked an exit ramp along I-59.

Thunderstorm Wind, Clarke

When: February 15, 3:25 PM CST
Where: Clarke County, 0.69 mi N of Archusa Spgs
Measured: 62 kt (71 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $110,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.040, -88.720

Numerous trees were blown down around the county, including several in Quitman. Two cars were damaged by falling trees.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lauderdale

When: February 15, 3:25 PM CST
Where: Lauderdale County, 0.69 mi N of Marion
Measured: 50 kt (58 mph) estimated gust
Property damage: $10,000
Reported by: Emergency Manager
Coordinates: 32.430, -88.650

A tree was blown down on a mobile home.

Thunderstorm Wind, Lauderdale

When: February 15, 3:34 PM CST
Where: Lauderdale County, (Nmm)nas Meridian
Measured: 48 kt (55 mph) measured gust
Property damage: $100
Reported by: AWOS
Coordinates: 32.550, -88.570

What these are

Hail: Hail three-quarters of an inch or larger, or smaller hail that caused damage, filed with the largest stone measured.
Thunderstorm Wind: Winds from a thunderstorm of 50 knots (58 mph) or more, or lower winds that caused damage or casualties. Measured gusts are marked MG, estimated EG.
Tornado: A violently rotating column of air in contact with the ground and extending from a thunderstorm, filed with its path, width and Fujita or Enhanced Fujita rating from the damage survey.

After NWS Directive 10-1605, the rules offices file Storm Data by.

The same day elsewhere

Every storm in Mississippi in 2016 Every state in 2016 This day in weather history The tornado archive for Mississippi, 2016 Warnings in Mississippi, February 2016

Sources

NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information, Storm Events Database, compiled from the National Weather Service’s monthly Storm Data. Complete through 2026-06; NCEI adds each month about 75 days after it ends and revises past years a few times a year. Rebuilt 2026-09-24. Each event’s entry at NCEI: 615288, 615289, 615290, 615291, 615292, 615293, 615294, 615295, 615296, 615297, 615298, 615299, 615300, 616379, 615301, 615303, 616380, 615304, 615309, 615305, 615311, 616383, 616384, 615312, 615313, 615314, 615315, 616381, 616382, 615316, 615317, 615318, 615319, 615321, 615328, 615339, 615340, 615343, 615342, 615346, and more.