Mississippi, 2018

Tornado and Tropical Storm in Mississippi, September 4 to 6, 2018

September 4 to 6, 2018 · NWS JAN · 18 events in 15 counties and zones

Tropical Storm Gordon made landfall during the evening of September 4th near the Alabama and Mississippi coast border. It continued to track to the northwest inland across much of central Mississippi on the 5th.

Where it happened

Every event with a place to put it; 12 filed by county or forecast zone are drawn at its center, in a lighter ring. 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
0
Property damage
$396,000
Crop damage
None recorded
Events
18

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.

Tropical Storm Gordon made landfall during the evening of September 4th near the Alabama and Mississippi coast border. It continued to track to the northwest inland across much of central Mississippi on the 5th. As it did, wind gusts associated with the rain bands of Gordon brought down trees across the area. One tornado also occurred in Montgomery County. As the center of Gordon pushed off to the north and east, a band of heavy rain fell across portions of Grenada, and Carroll counties. This produced significant flash flooding, including the need for water rescues.

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 Sep 4, 3:38 PM CST, 22 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Sep 4, 3:38 PM CST, 22 minutes before
Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Jackson MS
438 PM CDT Tue Sep 4 2018

...GORDON TO BRING GUSTY WINDS, HEAVY RAIN AND TORNADOES TO PORTIONS
OF THE ARKLAMISS...

.DISCUSSION...

Tonight through Wednesday night:

Expect an active period with the main focus of the period on
Tropical Storm Gordon moving towards landfall along the northern
Gulf Coast tonight, with impacts expected tonight and through
Wednesday across the ArkLaMiss.

Tropical Storm Gordon is nearing the northern Gulf Coast this
afternoon & still continues to look somewhat lopsided due to
southerly shear impacting the storm. Overall, most of the convection
still remains to the north & east of the center of circulation & may
remain that way until landfall. National Hurricane Center is
forecasting landfall of Gordon later tonight as a a low-end Category
1 hurricane along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, with wind gusts upwards
of 75-80mph or slightly higher. The upper synoptic pattern with
mid- level ridging over the mid-Atlantic & extending westward into
the mid- Mississippi Valley favors a continued northwest track
through landfall & into tomorrow morning before a gradual slowing
of forward speed. Expect Gordon to rapidly weaken to a tropical
depression over the next 24-36 hours as it moves inland across
central Mississippi by mid- morning Wednesday & into northwest
Mississippi Delta & southeast Arkansas going into Wednesday night
& Thursday morning. The overall path of the global & CAM guidance
seems to focus from landfall through tomorrow evening right along
the Pine Belt, the Highway 45 corridor into central Mississippi &
into the northwest Delta by late Wednesday & early Thursday
morning.

Expect winds to increase tonight as Gordon makes landfall, possibly
upwards of 40-55mph in the Pine Belt to maybe upwards of 30-40mph as
it moves towards the I-20 corridor by daybreak Wednesday. As a
result of rapid weakening & small inner core of the storm, the area
of strongest winds will remain in the Pine Belt, where the Tropical
Storm Warning remains in effect. Elsewhere outside of the Tropical
Storm Warning, winds won't be as strong, mainly in the 20-30mph with
gusts upward of 30-40mph. Just be aware that any deviation eastward
or wobble in the track could result in larger change in area of
winds. HWO & graphics look good overall & no large changes were
needed to the wind.

In addition to winds, heavy rain looks to be the biggest focus. As
the system moves in with nearly 2.5 inch PWs & 340K+ 850mb Theta,
this high moisture combined with convection & convergent rain bands
will lead to high rainfall totals. Right now we will continue to
advertise 3-6 inches with locally higher amounts, but some of the
CAM guidance shows some potential for some higher amounts of 7-8+
inches, especially along the track of Gordon or any areas of
convergent or training boundaries. Right now, the Flash Flood watch
remains in effect, but only changes were to include Grenada,
Montgomery & Lauderdale Counties as well. The rainfall should be
mostly confined along that track & the southwestern extent may be
more in question. For now, kept mention of that & some of this heavy
rain potential will linger into the ArkLaMiss Delta into the
overnight hours as Gordon weakens & slows down. HREF prob. max mean
seems to be hitting on this idea of higher amounts as well. Thus,
with coordination with WPC, went with higher QPF in the forecast &
expanded the "Elevated" & Limited" areas slightly in the
HWO/graphics. Will have to keep a close eye as there might be
potential for a "Significant" to be introduced in a more confined
area if CAM & HREF suite continue to paint a higher picture of QPF.

Lastly, low-level wind shear will increase as Gordon approaches &
makes landfall overnight. Due to that, the "Marginal" Risk was
expanded northward along the Highway 82 corridor and east of the
Mississippi River. In areas along & east of the track, there seems
to be enough wind shear (i.e. bulk shear ~30-40kts @ 0-2km & 0-3km)
& increased low-level helicity for some brief tornadoes. Will have
to monitor as the overall track of Gordon will make a difference in
the westward extent into the afternoon.

Expect Gordon to weaken as it continues to trek across the ArkLaMiss
Delta & into southeast Arkansas Wednesday night. There could remain
some flash flooding & severe potential into Thursday but for now,
will keep any mention out of the HWO/graphics. Expect highest rain &
storm chances to remain confined in the Delta with scattered to
numerous rain chances elsewhere going into Thursday morning. /DC/

Thursday through next Monday:

The center of the remnants of TS Gordon will be just to the NW of
the JAN CWA by Thursday morning. Heavy rainfall could be still
ongoing in the MS Delta, NE LA, and SE Arkansas as the system
continues it's slow trek to the NW before it merges with a front
just west of the mid MS River Valley on Friday. Deep tropical
moisture will continue to exist over the region on Thursday and
Friday with PWat values exceeding 2". Diurnal type thunderstorms
will develop by each afternoon. These thunderstorms could pose a
continued flood threat for areas that receive significant amounts
of rainfall on Wednesday due to Gordon.

Although a slightly drier airmass will exist through the weekend,
diurnal thunderstorms will still be possible on Saturday and
Sunday. The front that absorbed Gordon will finally begin to
approach the region late in the weekend. Models agree on the front
stalling over the region early next week, serving as a focus for
rain and storms through the period. Rain and storms on Thursday
and Friday will help keep temperatures a few degrees below normal.
High temperatures will bounce back to closer to normal on
Saturday and Sunday before falling back below normal during early
next week due to rain and storms associated  with the stalled
front. /JPM3/

&&

.AVIATION...
18Z TAF discussion:

Flight cats across the region should predominately wait until this
evening to start going downhill (sub-VFR), although some isolated
and temporary issues are possible through this afternoon (mainly
at NMM/MEI/PIB/HBG) due to passing downpours in advance of TS
Gordon in the Gulf of Mexico. The main impact from Gordon should
advance into HBG/PIB this evening and toward JAN/HKS/MEI/NMM late
tonight. Expect IFR to MVFR conditions with the worst of the
conditions due to ceilings and visibilities issues and heavy rain
with gusty east to southeast (gusting up to 30 kts at times)
possible at that point as well. Farther north, anticipate the
worst of the conditions and gusty east to southeast winds up to 25
to 30 mph will basically hold off until the daylight hours
tomorrow. Conditions will likely start to slowly improve, at least
at PIB/HBG, by late tomorrow afternoon into tomorrow evening. /BB/

&&

.PRELIMINARY POINT TEMPS/POPS...
Jackson       73  82  73  87 /  77  97  60  63
Meridian      73  83  73  88 /  83  86  33  58
Vicksburg     74  82  73  88 /  41  85  73  66
Hattiesburg   72  84  73  87 /  99  93  39  58
Natchez       73  84  73  86 /  44  75  62  61
Greenville    74  83  73  84 /  20  81  77  75
Greenwood     74  82  73  86 /  31  81  68  69

&&

.JAN WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
MS...Flash Flood Watch through Wednesday evening for MSZ037-043>045-
     048>059-061>066-072>074.

     Flash Flood Watch from Wednesday morning through Thursday
     morning for MSZ018-019-025>028-034-035-040-041.

     Flash Flood Watch through Thursday morning for MSZ036-042-047.

     Tropical Storm Warning for MSZ072>074.

LA...Flash Flood Watch from Wednesday morning through Thursday
     morning for LAZ007>009-015-016-023-025.

AR...Flash Flood Watch from Wednesday morning through Thursday
     morning for ARZ074-075.

&&

DC/JPM3/BB
Hazardous weather outlook, Sep 4, 11:23 AM CST, 4 hours 37 minutes before
Hazardous Weather Outlook...UPDATED
National Weather Service Jackson MS
1223 PM CDT Tue Sep 4 2018

ARZ074-075-LAZ007>009-015-016-023>026-MSZ018-019-025>041-051730-
Ashley-Chicot-Morehouse-West Carroll-East Carroll-Richland-
Madison LA-Franklin LA-Catahoula-Tensas-Concordia-Bolivar-
Sunflower-Leflore-Grenada-Carroll-Montgomery-Webster-Clay-Lowndes-
Choctaw-Oktibbeha-Washington-Humphreys-Holmes-Attala-Winston-
Noxubee-Issaquena-Sharkey-
1223 PM CDT Tue Sep 4 2018

This hazardous weather outlook is for portions of southeast
Arkansas, northeast Louisiana, central Mississippi, and north
central Mississippi.

.DAY ONE...The rest of Today and Tonight

The probability for widespread hazardous weather is low.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Wednesday through Monday

Rainfall on Wednesday and Wednesday night associated with
Tropical Storm Gordon is expected to result in flash flooding,
particularly across the ArklaMiss Delta. Storm total rainfall
accumulations of 3 to 6 inches are expected, with locally higher
amounts possible.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/1.png)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moves across the region, brief tornadoes
and damaging wind gusts in rain bands are possible beginning late
tonight into Wednesday across central Mississippi and far
northeastern Louisiana.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/3.png)

.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 Wednesday
through Wednesday night.

MSZ042-044>046-051730-
Yazoo-Leake-Neshoba-Kemper-
1223 PM CDT Tue Sep 4 2018

This hazardous weather outlook is for portions of central
Mississippi, and east central Mississippi.

.DAY ONE...The rest of Today and Tonight

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Marginal
TIMING...Late tonight

As Tropical Storm Gordon moves across the region, brief tornadoes
and damaging wind gusts in rain bands are possible beginning late
tonight.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/3.png)

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Wednesday through Monday

Rainfall on Wednesday and Wednesday night associated with
Tropical Storm Gordon is expected to result in flash flooding,
particularly across the ArklaMiss Delta. Storm total rainfall
accumulations of 3 to 6 inches are expected, with locally higher
amounts possible.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/1.png)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moves across the region, brief tornadoes
and damaging wind gusts in rain bands are possible beginning late
tonight and into Wednesday across central Mississippi and far
northeastern Louisiana.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/3.png)

.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 tonight
through Wednesday night.

MSZ043-047>050-053-054-062-051730-
Madison MS-Warren-Hinds-Rankin-Scott-Claiborne-Copiah-Lincoln-
1223 PM CDT Tue Sep 4 2018

This hazardous weather outlook is for portions of central
Mississippi, south central Mississippi, southwest Mississippi,
and west central Mississippi.

.DAY ONE...The rest of Today and Tonight

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Marginal
TIMING...After midnight

NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Late tonight

As Tropical Storm Gordon moves across the region, brief tornadoes
and damaging wind gusts in rain bands are possible beginning late
tonight.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/3.png)

The threat for gusty winds will begin to move into the area late
tonight into early morning hours of Wednesday.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/2.png)

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Wednesday through Monday

Rainfall on Wednesday and Wednesday night associated with
Tropical Storm Gordon is expected to result in flash flooding,
particularly across the ArklaMiss Delta. Storm total rainfall
accumulations of 3 to 6 inches are expected, with locally higher
amounts possible.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/1.png)

Gusty winds associated with Tropical Storm Gordon are expected
continuing into Wednesday. Wind gusts of 30 to 40 mph are
possible, which may result in downed trees and powerlines.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/2.png)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moves across the region, brief tornadoes
and damaging wind gusts in rain bands are possible beginning late
tonight and into Wednesday across central Mississippi and far
northeastern Louisiana.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/3.png)

.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 tonight
through Wednesday night.

MSZ051-052-058-051730-
Newton-Lauderdale-Clarke-
1223 PM CDT Tue Sep 4 2018

This hazardous weather outlook is for portions of east central
Mississippi.

.DAY ONE...The rest of Today and Tonight

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Marginal
TIMING...After midnight

FLOODING
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Late tonight

As Tropical Storm Gordon moves across the region, brief tornadoes
and damaging wind gusts in rain bands are possible beginning late
tonight.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/3.png)

Rainfall associated with Tropical Storm Gordon may result in
localized flash flooding, particularly in low lying and urban
areas. Storm total rainfall accumulations of 1 to 3 inches are
expected, with locally higher amounts possible.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/1.png)

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Wednesday through Monday

Rainfall on Wednesday and Wednesday night associated with
Tropical Storm Gordon is expected to result in flash flooding,
particularly across the ArklaMiss Delta. Storm total rainfall
accumulations of 3 to 6 inches are expected, with locally higher
amounts possible.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/1.png)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moves across the region, brief tornadoes
and damaging wind gusts in rain bands are possible beginning late
tonight and into Wednesday across central Mississippi and far
northeastern Louisiana.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/3.png)

.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 tonight
through Wednesday night.

MSZ059>061-051730-
Jefferson-Adams-Franklin MS-
1223 PM CDT Tue Sep 4 2018

This hazardous weather outlook is for portions of southwest
Mississippi.

.DAY ONE...The rest of Today and Tonight

NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Late tonight

The threat for gusty winds will begin to move into the area late
tonight into early morning hours of Wednesday.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/2.png)

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Wednesday through Monday

Rainfall on Wednesday and Wednesday night associated with
Tropical Storm Gordon is expected to result in flash flooding,
particularly across the ArklaMiss Delta. Storm total rainfall
accumulations of 3 to 6 inches are expected, with locally higher
amounts possible.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/1.png)

Gusty winds associated with Tropical Storm Gordon are expected
continuing into Wednesday. Wind gusts of 30 to 40 mph are
possible, which may result in downed trees and powerlines.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/2.png)

.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 Monday.

MSZ055>057-063>065-051730-
Simpson-Smith-Jasper-Lawrence-Jefferson Davis-Covington-
1223 PM CDT Tue Sep 4 2018

This hazardous weather outlook is for portions of central
Mississippi, east central Mississippi, south central Mississippi,
and southeast Mississippi.

.DAY ONE...The rest of Today and Tonight

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Marginal
TIMING...After midnight

FLOODING
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Late this evening into tonight

NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Late this evening into tonight

As Tropical Storm Gordon moves across the region, brief tornadoes
and damaging wind gusts in rain bands are possible beginning late
tonight.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/3.png)

Rainfall beginning late this evening and continuing into
Wednesday associated with Tropical Storm Gordon is expected to
result in flash flooding. Storm total rainfall accumulations of 3
to 6 inches are expected, with locally higher amounts possible.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/1.png)

Gusty winds associated with Tropical Storm Gordon are expected
beginning late this evening and into tonight. Wind gusts of 30 to
40 mph are possible, which may result in downed trees and
powerlines.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/2.png)

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Wednesday through Monday

Rainfall on Wednesday and Wednesday night associated with
Tropical Storm Gordon is expected to result in flash flooding,
particularly across the ArklaMiss Delta. Storm total rainfall
accumulations of 3 to 6 inches are expected, with locally higher
amounts possible.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/1.png)

Gusty winds associated with Tropical Storm Gordon are expected
continuing into Wednesday. Wind gusts of 30 to 40 mph are
possible, which may result in downed trees and powerlines.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/2.png)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moves across the region, brief tornadoes
and damaging wind gusts in rain bands are possible beginning late
tonight and into Wednesday across central Mississippi and far
northeastern Louisiana.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/3.png)

.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 tonight
through Wednesday night.

MSZ066-051730-
Jones-
1223 PM CDT Tue Sep 4 2018

This hazardous weather outlook is for portions of southeast
Mississippi.

.DAY ONE...The rest of Today and Tonight

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Marginal
TIMING...After midnight

FLOODING
THREAT...Elevated
TIMING...Late this evening into tonight

NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Late this evening into tonight

As Tropical Storm Gordon moves across the region, brief tornadoes
and damaging wind gusts in rain bands are possible beginning late
tonight.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/3.png)

Rainfall beginning late this evening and continuing into
Wednesday associated with Tropical Storm Gordon is expected to
result in flash flooding. Storm total rainfall accumulations of 3
to 6 inches are expected, with locally higher amounts possible.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/1.png)

Gusty winds associated with Tropical Storm Gordon are expected
beginning late this evening and into tonight. Wind gusts of 30 to
40 mph are possible, which may result in downed trees and
powerlines.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/2.png)

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Wednesday through Monday

Rainfall on Wednesday and Wednesday night associated with
Tropical Storm Gordon is expected to result in flash flooding,
particularly across the ArklaMiss Delta. Storm total rainfall
accumulations of 3 to 6 inches are expected, with locally higher
amounts possible.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/1.png)

Gusty winds associated with Tropical Storm Gordon are expected
continuing into Wednesday. Wind gusts of 30 to 40 mph are
possible, which may result in downed trees and powerlines.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/2.png)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moves across the region, brief tornadoes
and damaging wind gusts in rain bands are possible beginning late
tonight and into Wednesday across central Mississippi and far
northeastern Louisiana.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/3.png)

.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 tonight
through Wednesday night.

MSZ072>074-051730-
Marion-Lamar-Forrest-
1223 PM CDT Tue Sep 4 2018

This hazardous weather outlook is for portions of south central
Mississippi, and southeast Mississippi.

.DAY ONE...The rest of Today and Tonight

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Marginal
TIMING...After midnight

FLOODING
THREAT...Elevated
TIMING...Late this evening into tonight

NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS
THREAT...Elevated
TIMING...Late this evening into tonight

As Tropical Storm Gordon moves across the region, brief tornadoes
and damaging wind gusts in rain bands are possible beginning late
tonight.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/3.png)

Rainfall beginning late this evening and continuing into
Wednesday associated with Tropical Storm Gordon is expected to
result in flash flooding. Storm total rainfall accumulations of 3
to 6 inches are expected, with locally higher amounts possible.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/1.png)

Strong wind associated with Tropical Storm Gordon is expected
beginning late this evening. Wind gusts of 40 to 55 mph are
possible, which may result in numerous downed trees and
powerlines, some damage to roofs and homes, and some blocked
roadways.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/2.png)

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Wednesday through Monday

Flash flooding concerns will continue into the daytime Wednesday.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/1.png)

The threat for tropical storm winds will continue into the
daytime Wednesday.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/2.png)

The threat for brief tornadoes and damaging wind gusts will
continue into the daytime Wednesday.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/3.png)

.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 tonight
through Wednesday night.

23

&&

...HAZARD LEGEND...

*SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS*
High...Significant severe thunderstorms are expected.
Moderate...Severe storms expected with significant
 severe weather possible.
Enhanced...Severe storms expected.
Slight...Severe storms possible.
Marginal...Isolated severe storms possible.

*NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS*
Extreme...Sustained winds 50 mph or greater or wind gusts 65 mph
 or greater.
Significant...Sustained winds 40-49 mph or wind gusts 58-64 mph.
Elevated...Sustained winds 30-39 mph or wind gusts 45-57 mph.
Limited...Sustained winds 20-29 mph or wind gusts 30 to 44 mph.

*FLOODING*
Extreme...Confident in significant flooding.
Significant...Significant flooding possible.
Elevated...Confident in flooding.
Limited...Flooding possible.

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

NWS JAN Home page...
   https://www.weather.gov/jan
Stay Aware, Stay Safe NWS JAN Briefing Page...
   https://www.weather.gov/jan/safe
Latest Weather Briefing...
   https://www.weather.gov/jan/weather_briefing

Tropical page...
   https://www.weather.gov/jan/srh/tropical?office=jan
National Hurricane Center Home Page...
   https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
Find NWS JAN on Facebook...
   https://www.facebook.com/NWSJacksonMS
Follow NWS JAN on Twitter...
   @NWSJacksonMS
Follow NWS JAN on Youtube...
   https://www.youtube.com/user/NWSJacksonMiss

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

Storm Prediction Center (SPC)...
   https://www.spc.noaa.gov/
Meso Analysis...
   https://www.spc.noaa.gov/exper/mesoanalysis/
Day 1 through 3 Outlooks...
   https://www.spc.noaa.gov/products/outlook/
Storm Reports...
   https://www.spc.noaa.gov/climo/online/
...ADDITIONAL URLS FOR FLOODING ISSUES...

Current Watches and Warnings...
   https://www.weather.gov/jan/safe_HeavyRain

Observed Precipitation Images...
   https://www.weather.gov/jan/precipmaps

River Forecast Center...
   https://www.weather.gov/lmrfc/
Significant River Flood Outlook...
   https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/nationalfloodoutlook/index.html
Day 1 through 3 Excessive Rainfall...
   https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/qpf/excess_rain.shtml
Excessive Rainfall Discussion...
   https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/discussions/qpferd.html
Day 1 through 7 QPF...
   https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/qpf/qpf2.shtml
QPF Discussion...
   https://www.wpc.ncep.noaa.gov/discussions/qpfpfd.html

In the hours before

Special weather statement, Sep 4, 2:10 PM CST, 1 hour 50 minutes before
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Jackson MS
310 PM CDT TUE SEP 4 2018

MSZ039-046-042115-
Kemper MS-Noxubee MS-
310 PM CDT TUE SEP 4 2018

...A LINE OF STRONG THUNDERSTORMS WILL AFFECT CENTRAL NOXUBEE AND
KEMPER COUNTIES UNTIL 415 PM CDT...

At 309 PM CDT, Meteorologists were tracking strong thunderstorms
along a line extending from near Blackwater to Aliceville. Movement
was northwest at 15 mph.

Winds of 30 to 40 mph will be possible with these storms.

Strong thunderstorms will be near...
  Blackwater around 315 PM CDT.
  De Kalb around 325 PM CDT.
  Liberty around 335 PM CDT.
  Bluff Springs around 405 PM CDT.
  Prairie Point around 410 PM CDT.
  Bigbee Valley around 415 PM CDT.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

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.

&&

LAT...LON 3283 8836 3258 8864 3270 8892 3284 8891
      3329 8842 3329 8831
TIME...MOT...LOC 2009Z 114DEG 12KT 3266 8866 3311 8815

EC
Special weather statement, Sep 4, 3:18 PM CST, 42 minutes before
Special Weather Statement
National Weather Service Jackson MS
418 PM CDT TUE SEP 4 2018

MSZ044-045-042200-
Neshoba MS-Leake MS-
418 PM CDT TUE SEP 4 2018

...A STRONG THUNDERSTORM WILL AFFECT NORTHEASTERN LEAKE AND WESTERN
NESHOBA COUNTIES UNTIL 500 PM CDT...

At 418 PM CDT, Meteorologists were tracking a strong thunderstorm
over Philadelphia, moving northwest at 30 mph.

Winds of 30 to 40 mph will be possible with this storm.

This strong thunderstorm will be near...
  Pearl River around 430 PM CDT.
  Edinburg around 440 PM CDT.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

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.

&&

LAT...LON 3265 8911 3274 8950 3293 8937 3293 8923
      3281 8901
TIME...MOT...LOC 2118Z 113DEG 25KT 3277 8915

EC

The radar

The Mobile radar (KMOB), 112 km away, was scanning. The volume nearest the first event began at 20:47 UTC.

Open the radar archive at this moment

Event by event

11 tropical depression, 5 flash flood, 1 tropical storm, 1 tornado. Local standard time, as filed.

Tropical Storm, Forrest

When
September 4, 4:00 PM CST to 7:00 PM CST
Where
Forrest forecast zone
Property damage
$15,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
31.189, -89.258 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

Tropical Storm Gordon made landfall along the Mississippi Coast on the evening of September 4th. It tracked north east across the area through the 5th. It brought gusty winds to Forrest County which resulted in a few instances of wind damage to the region. A power line was blown down on Main Avenue in Brooklyn. A tree was blown down on I-59 near mile marker 62 and another tree was blown down on Luther Carter Road near Petal.

Tropical Depression, Jones

When
September 5, 1:10 AM CST to 3:00 AM CST
Where
Jones forecast zone
Property damage
$50,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
31.623, -89.169 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moved further inland, it was downgraded to a tropical depression. Gusty winds still occurred as the center moved through central Mississippi. Trees, power poles and power lines were blown down across Jones County, especially around Laurel and Ellisville. A metal roof was also damaged on a structure in Ovett.

Tropical Depression, Clarke

When
September 5, 2:20 AM CST to 3:00 AM CST
Where
Clarke forecast zone
Property damage
$20,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
32.041, -88.689 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moved further inland, it was downgraded to a tropical depression. Gusty winds still occurred as the center moved through central Mississippi. Trees and power lines were blown down across portions of Clarke County.

Tropical Depression, Jasper

When
September 5, 2:30 AM CST to 3:30 AM CST
Where
Jasper forecast zone
Property damage
$20,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
32.019, -89.119 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moved further inland, it was downgraded to a tropical depression. Gusty winds still occurred as the center moved through central Mississippi. Trees and power lines were blown down across portions of Jasper County.

Tropical Depression, Carroll

When
September 5, 3:00 AM CST to 7:00 AM CST
Where
Carroll forecast zone
Property damage
$50,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
33.449, -89.920 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moved further inland, it was downgraded to a tropical depression. Gusty winds still occurred as the center moved through central Mississippi. Numerous trees were blown down due to saturated grounds and wind gusts around 20 to 30 mph. Some of the trees blown down occurred along MS Highway 35 and MS Highway 17 south of Carrollton. Trees were also blown down on US Highway 82 west of Carrollton.

Tropical Depression, Smith

When
September 5, 3:30 AM CST to 5:00 AM CST
Where
Smith forecast zone
Property damage
$15,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
32.018, -89.507 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moved further inland, it was downgraded to a tropical depression. Gusty winds still occurred as the center moved through central Mississippi. A few trees were blown down across portions of Smith County.

Tropical Depression, Scott

When
September 5, 3:55 AM CST to 4:50 AM CST
Where
Scott forecast zone
Property damage
$15,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
32.406, -89.538 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moved further inland, it was downgraded to a tropical depression. Gusty winds still occurred as the center moved through central Mississippi. A few trees were blown down across portions of Scott County, including some on Pea Ridge Road and Highway 35 as well as Sims Hill Road.

Tropical Depression, Covington

When
September 5, 4:15 AM CST to 4:50 AM CST
Where
Covington forecast zone
Property damage
$15,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
31.633, -89.553 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moved further inland, it was downgraded to a tropical depression. Gusty winds still occurred as the center moved through central Mississippi. A few trees were blown down across portions of Covington County, including some on Shows Lane near Mount Olive.

Tropical Depression, Grenada

When
September 5, 6:05 AM CST
Where
Grenada forecast zone
Property damage
$4,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
33.770, -89.802 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moved further inland, it was downgraded to a tropical depression. Gusty winds still occurred as the center moved through central Mississippi. A tree was blown down on South Main and Sparta Road in Grenada County.

Tropical Depression, Winston

When
September 5, 6:15 AM CST
Where
Winston forecast zone
Property damage
$15,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
33.089, -89.034 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moved further inland, it was downgraded to a tropical depression. Gusty winds still occurred as the center moved through central Mississippi. A few trees were blown down across portions of Winston County, including some on the corner of North Columbus Ave and Sturgis Road.

Tropical Depression, Choctaw

When
September 5, 6:45 AM CST
Where
Choctaw forecast zone
Property damage
$50,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
33.347, -89.248 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moved further inland, it was downgraded to a tropical depression. Gusty winds still occurred as the center moved through central Mississippi. A few trees were blown down across portions of Choctaw County, including one that fell onto a home in Ackerman.

Tropical Depression, Noxubee

When
September 5, 12:45 PM CST
Where
Noxubee forecast zone
Property damage
$10,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
33.110, -88.570 (the zone’s center; the record gives no point)

As Tropical Storm Gordon moved further inland, it was downgraded to a tropical depression. Gusty winds still occurred as the center moved through central Mississippi. A few trees were blown down near Brooksville along Union Bluff Road.

Tornado, Montgomery

When
September 5, 2:49 PM CST to 2:50 PM CST
Where
Montgomery County, 0.78 mi NW of Polar Creek to 0.67 mi NW of Polar Creek
Rating
EF0
Path length
0.14 mi
Path width
25 yd
Property damage
$100
Reported by
NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates
33.359, -89.579

This brief and weak tornado is estimated to have occurred in a wooded area just west of Poplar Creek between Highway 407 and Pine Bluff Road. A picture of the tornado was relayed by social media and an interview was conducted with the individual who observed the tornado. Time and location were estimated based on radar data. The eyewitness account described a very brief and weak tornado with small pieces of debris and leaves being lofted a few hundred feet off of the surface. Maximum estimated winds were 60 mph.

Flash Flood, Carroll

When
September 6, 6:30 AM CST to 2:30 PM CST
Where
Carroll County, 2.35 mi SE of Coila to 2.18 mi S of Carrollton
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$20,000
Reported by
Law Enforcement
Coordinates
33.373, -89.945

A swath of heavy rain moved across the same portions of Carroll County, which resulted in significant flooding. Highway 35 near Old Smith Road was underwater. Parts of Highway 17 south of Highway 35 was also flooded. People were also being rescued from homes due to flooding along County Road 148.

Flash Flood, Grenada

When
September 6, 6:30 AM CST to 3:00 PM CST
Where
Grenada County, 0.57 mi E of Dubard to 1.79 mi SSE of Troy
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$60,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
33.770, -89.910

A swath of rain and storms moved across Grenada County repeatedly, which resulted in flash flooding. The bulk of the flooding occurred in and around Grenada. Flash flooding occurred on Dubard Road near Highway 8 West, along Greer Road and along Dillion Road. Water flooded all of the roads in Ole Hickory subdivision, including Old Hickory Road off of Sunset Drive. Water also flowed across roadways and approached homes in the Deer Creek subdivision on Deer Creek Road. A few culverts were washed out in eastern Grenada County. Homer Road and Carrollton Road near Perry Creek were flooded. Two homes had floodwaters in them along Gillon Road south of Highway 8. Over seven inches fell near Holcomb.

Flash Flood, Holmes

When
September 6, 6:30 AM CST to 2:30 PM CST
Where
Holmes County, 0.63 mi NNW of Lexington Ca Moor Ar to 1.71 mi SE of Lexington
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$5,000
Reported by
Law Enforcement
Coordinates
33.138, -90.036

Flash flooding occurred along Highway 17 North in the city of Lexington.

Flash Flood, Leflore

When
September 6, 7:00 AM CST to 11:30 AM CST
Where
Leflore County, 1.38 mi S of Greenwood to 1.52 mi WSW of Greenwood
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$30,000
Reported by
Law Enforcement
Coordinates
33.500, -90.180

Numerous roads were flooded around Greenwood. Some of the roads included: East Block, Grand, North Park, Jefferson Davis, Harding and Robert E. Lee. Several intersections were also flooded, which included William and Church streets, MLK near Main Street. A vehicle rescue occurred from high water at an underpass on Main Street.

Flash Flood, Montgomery

When
September 6, 1:00 PM CST to 2:00 PM CST
Where
Montgomery County, 0.58 mi E of Duck Hill to 1.24 mi ENE of Duck Hill
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$2,000
Reported by
Law Enforcement
Coordinates
33.630, -89.710

US highway 51 was flooded.

What these are

Tropical Storm
A tropical cyclone with sustained winds of 34 to 63 knots (39 to 73 mph).
Tropical Depression
A tropical cyclone with sustained winds below 34 knots.
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.
Flash Flood
Flooding that begins within six hours of the rain that causes it, or of a dam or levee failure or ice jam release, often with deadly speed.

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

The same day elsewhere

More

Every storm in Mississippi in 2018Every state in 2018This day in weather historyThe tornado archive for Mississippi, 2018Warnings in Mississippi, September 2018The 2018 hurricane season

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: 773754, 773947, 773961, 773966, 784556, 773972, 782187, 782188, 784557, 782190, 782191, 784550, 773752, 784551, 784552, 784553, 784554, 784555.