Arkansas, 2023

Tornadoes and Flash Flooding in Arkansas, January 2 to 3, 2023

January 2 to 3, 2023 · NWS JAN · 15 events in 2 counties and zones

A line of storms produce damaging winds and tornadoes.

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
0
Property damage
$967,000
Crop damage
None recorded
Events
15

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.

A line of storms produce damaging winds and tornadoes.

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 Jan 2, 6:24 PM CST, 30 minutes earlier.

Area forecast discussion, Jan 2, 6:24 PM CST, 30 minutes before
Area Forecast Discussion...UPDATED
National Weather Service Jackson MS
624 PM CST Mon Jan 2 2023

...New AVIATION...

.DISCUSSION...
Issued at 357 PM CST Mon Jan 2 2023

Tonight-Tuesday...

Main focus remains on the severe weather potential across the
region. Spoke of energy is progged to eject ENE into the Mid-W to
Great Lakes tonight-Tues around the periphery of the subtropical
ridge to the SE. Strong sfc cyclone will develop, with a deepening
sfc low expected nearly or sub 1000mb moving out of the Plains into
the Mid-W. With strong upper jet moving across the Plains & into the
Ozarks, increasingly favorable jet dynamics, diffluence/right
entrance region of upper jet will propagate near the region tonight
through Tues. There is increasingly favorable conditions for severe
storms, but decreased confidence in recent CAM guidance for some of
the more organized aftn convection & even significant & organized
QLCS. With more recent runs of the HRRR adding more uncertainty on
organization of any convective line sweeping in, confidence in
strong tornadoes has lowered some. There remains the best potential
for strong LLJ & clockwise curved hodographs with more sweeping wind
profiles into the overnight hours. If a more semi-organized QLCS can
develop to the W this aftn & spread E into the evening & persist,
all modes of severe weather are possible, including tornadoes,
damaging winds up to 70mph & some hail. As the cold front swings to
the E, expect increased ascent & redevelopment of storms in E-SE MS.
This area is where the "Enhanced" Risk was added earlier. After
earlier collaboration with SPC, keeping this as is. However, wind
profiles become to veer into the early aftn hours, limiting
strong tornado potential. Definitely can't rule it out further
E-NE, especially closer to the MS/AL state line, as storms will
initiate in SE MS in the I-59 corridor & spread ENE. After this
initial round of storms Tues move out by mid-aftn Tues, some
increased lapse rates, but more veered wind profiles/deep shear
will support some large hail up to golf ball size. Main
adjustments to the going graphic were to break it up to two, with
one for first round late tonight through early Tues & the second
round into Tues. Timing is tricky, if a QLCS develops early &
persists, it could go later into the night. Confidence is
increasing that not much in the way of aftn convection will
develop & will be focused more after midnight in the NW Delta.
This line of storms should weaken before redevelopment by mid-
morning through late aftn-evening.

Flash flooding is also another caveat, but there is continued
support for heavy rain probs in the Delta & now increased potential
into SE MS for the area of redevelopment. This is all dependent on
actual evolution of organized convection, so if recent trends of
HRRR are correct, could decrease potential in the NW Delta. For now,
there remains potential for heavy rain of 2-4" with locally higher
amounts to 6" in the NW Delta, where the Flash Flood Watch remains
in effect. Can't rule out some needed adjustments in SE MS where
HREF ensemble neighborhood probs > 3" have increased & localized
prob match mean values have bumped up to nearly +2-4". Coordinated
some increase in QPF for SE MS, but if trends continue, another area
of increased messaging of flash flooding potential may be needed or
more focus may turn to this.

Lastly, strong low-level jet & tightening pressure gradient of +5mb
is expected, leading to sustained winds up to 25mph, with brief
gusts up to 35-40mph, mainly NW of a line from SW MS into Jackson
Metro up to Hwy 45 just S of the Golden Triangle. There is potential
for some of those higher gusts to 45mph in the Delta mainly from SE
AR, NE LA & extreme NW MS. This area will have to evaluated for
future updates for a later wind advisory, if confidence in sustained
winds increases. Lows tonight will be much warmer due to clouds &
storms around, mainly in the mid-upper 60s. Highs Tuesday will be
warm into the mid 70s. /DC/

Tuesday Night through Monday... Ongoing convective activity is
anticipated at the start of the period across central and eastern
areas as the slow moving front maintains deep moisture convergence
to support showers/storms. The final push of large scale ascent
will occur during the Tue night period and will make the most of
what deep moisture remains along the front with all activity
exiting the area around midnight. Some of this activity could be
strong to severe but really depends on what instability remains
from earlier activity. PoPs and weather grids will reflect the
latest timing and exit of this activity.

On Wednesday, mid level dry slot will punch into the area putting an
end to any precip potential. Additionally, large scale mid/upper low
will close off and slow its eastward progression. The result will be
not much of a cold frontal push in the lower levels. As a result,
WSW winds will exist and allow for a decent warm up Wed with 67-75
the more likely MaxT range. The cold air advection associated with
the main part of the cold front will arrive later Wednesday night
into Thursday bring in cooler and more seasonal conditions. The
coolest period will be Friday morning when the surface high is over
the region and radiational cooling will be maximized. Much of the
area (esp N half) should reach freezing with other locations getting
close.

By the weekend, look for a steady moderation as a short wave
approaches the region. This will allow for return flow to develop
and bring some precip chances. There remains uncertainty in how this
wave and other features will evolve. The result is lower confidence
in any timing of precip for the area. If the wave is stronger, then
better moisture return will occur and precip is more likely to
develop later Saturday into Sunday. If weaker, then some moistening
will happen, but it would be more likely the next wave will make the
most of the moisture and precip would have better chances sometime
Sunday into Monday. Overall, lower type chances will exist in the
forecast to cover all of this until details can get ironed out. /CME/

.AVIATION...Rain moving in and steadily moistening the column which
is going to gradually lower the ceilings. This will take some time,
but we should see MVFR ceilings begin 20-23z (W to E) then be
prevailing across all sites by 00-04z. We will then trend to see IFR
by tonight and linger those conditions into early Tue. Much of this
will be driven by precip and then linger as some precip moves out.
Steady improving conditions look to take place after 18z Tue, so
anticipate that trend in future forecasts. /CME/

&&

.AVIATION...
(00Z TAFS)
Issued at 610 PM CST Mon Jan 2 2023

Southerly winds will occasionally be gusty through this evening
and overnight, with isolated SHRA at times. MVFR ceilings will
become more common by 06Z Tuesday, with increasing chances for
SHRA and TSRA affecting the TAF sites between 12Z and 20Z. /NF/

&&

.PRELIMINARY POINT TEMPS/POPS...
Jackson       67  75  53  71 /  40 100  40   0
Meridian      66  75  56  70 /  40 100  70   0
Vicksburg     66  76  50  68 /  70 100  30   0
Hattiesburg   67  75  58  73 /  40 100  70   0
Natchez       66  75  53  70 /  60 100  30   0
Greenville    64  73  50  65 / 100  90  10   0
Greenwood     66  73  52  68 /  80 100  30   0

&&

.JAN WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
MS...Flood Watch from midnight CST tonight through Tuesday morning
     for MSZ018-019-034-040-041.

LA...Flood Watch from midnight CST tonight through Tuesday morning
     for LAZ007>009-015.

AR...Flood Watch from midnight CST tonight through Tuesday morning
     for ARZ074-075.

&&

DC/CME/NF
Hazardous weather outlook, Jan 2, 4:24 PM CST, 2 hours 30 minutes before
Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Jackson MS
424 PM CST Mon Jan 2 2023

ARZ074-032230-
Ashley-
424 PM CST Mon Jan 2 2023

This hazardous weather outlook is for portions of southeast
Arkansas.

.DAY ONE...Tonight and Tuesday

FLOODING
THREAT...Elevated
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Enhanced
TIMING...Mainly Tonight

NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS
THREAT...Elevated
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

Areas of flash flooding likely late tonight through Tuesday. Some
roads could be flooded or closed, and some structures may be
potentially threatened by high water.

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

Severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging
wind gusts, and hail up to half dollar are likely late tonight
through early Tuesday morning. Additional redevelopment from mid-
morning Tuesday through the afternoon to early evening could
bring tornadoes (can't rule out a strong tornado), large hail up
to golf ball size and damaging wind gusts.

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

Strong winds are expected outside of thunderstorms tonight into
early Tuesday morning. Some downed trees and powerlines are
possible due to sustained winds of 20 to 25 mph and wind gusts up
to 45 mph. Travel may be difficult for high profile vehicles.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/4.png)

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Tuesday night 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 tonight
through Tuesday.

ARZ075-LAZ007-MSZ018-019-034-032230-
Chicot-Morehouse-Bolivar-Sunflower-Washington-
424 PM CST Mon Jan 2 2023

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

.DAY ONE...Tonight and Tuesday

FLOODING
THREAT...Elevated
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Slight
TIMING...Mainly Tonight

NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS
THREAT...Elevated
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

Areas of flash flooding likely late tonight through Tuesday. Some
roads could be flooded or closed, and some structures may be
potentially threatened by high water.

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

Severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging
wind gusts, and hail up to quarter size are possible from late
tonight into early Tuesday morning. Additional redevelopment from
mid-morning Tuesday through the afternoon to early evening could
bring tornadoes, large hail up to golf ball size and damaging
wind gusts.

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

Strong winds are expected outside of thunderstorms tonight into
early Tuesday morning. Some downed trees and powerlines are
possible due to sustained winds of 20 to 25 mph and wind gusts up
to 45 mph. Travel may be difficult for high profile vehicles.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/4.png)

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Tuesday night 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 tonight
through Tuesday.

MSZ026>029-032-036-037-042-053-059-032230-
Grenada-Carroll-Montgomery-Webster-Choctaw-Holmes-Attala-Yazoo-
Claiborne-Jefferson-
424 PM CST Mon Jan 2 2023

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

.DAY ONE...Tonight and Tuesday

FLOODING
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Slight
TIMING...Mainly Tuesday

NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

Localized flash flooding is possible late tonight through Tuesday
morning, particularly in low lying and urban areas.

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

Severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging
wind gusts, and hail up to quarter size are possible from late
tonight into early Tuesday morning. Additional redevelopment from
mid-morning Tuesday through the afternoon to early evening could
bring tornadoes, large hail up to golf ball size and damaging
wind gusts.

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

Strong winds are expected outside of thunderstorms tonight into
early Tuesday morning. A few trees and large limbs may break and
fall due to sustained winds of 20 to 25 mph and wind of 30-
40 mph. High profile vehicles should exercise caution.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/4.png)

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Tuesday night 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 tonight
through Tuesday.

MSZ031-033-038-039-044-045-050-032230-
Lowndes-Oktibbeha-Winston-Noxubee-Leake-Neshoba-Scott-
424 PM CST Mon Jan 2 2023

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

.DAY ONE...Tonight and Tuesday

NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Slight
TIMING...Tuesday

FLOODING
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Tuesday

Strong winds are expected outside of thunderstorms tonight into
early Tuesday morning. A few trees and large limbs may break and
fall due to sustained winds of 20 to 25 mph and wind of 30-
40 mph. High profile vehicles should exercise caution.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/4.png)

Severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging
wind gusts, and hail up to quarter size are possible from late
tonight into early Tuesday morning. Additional redevelopment from
mid-morning Tuesday through the afternoon to early evening could
bring tornadoes, large hail up to golf ball size and damaging
wind gusts.

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

Localized flash flooding is possible late tonight through Tuesday
morning, particularly in low lying and urban areas.

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

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Tuesday night 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 Tuesday.

MSZ030-032230-
Clay-
424 PM CST Mon Jan 2 2023

This hazardous weather outlook is for portions of northeast
Mississippi.

.DAY ONE...Tonight and Tuesday

FLOODING
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Slight
TIMING...Tuesday

NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

Localized flash flooding is possible late tonight through Tuesday
morning, particularly in low lying and urban areas.

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

Severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging
wind gusts, and hail up to quarter size are possible from late
tonight into early Tuesday morning. Additional redevelopment from
mid-morning Tuesday through the afternoon to early evening could
bring tornadoes, large hail up to golf ball size and damaging
wind gusts.

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

Strong winds are expected outside of thunderstorms tonight into
early Tuesday morning. A few trees and large limbs may break and
fall due to sustained winds of 20 to 25 mph and wind of 30-
40 mph. High profile vehicles should exercise caution.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/4.png)

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Tuesday night 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 Tuesday.

LAZ009-016-023-MSZ035-040-041-032230-
East Carroll-Madison LA-Franklin LA-Humphreys-Issaquena-Sharkey-
424 PM CST Mon Jan 2 2023

This hazardous weather outlook is for portions of northeast
Louisiana, central Mississippi, and west central Mississippi.

.DAY ONE...Tonight and Tuesday

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Slight
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

FLOODING
THREAT...Elevated
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

Severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging
wind gusts, and hail up to quarter size are possible from late
tonight into early Tuesday morning. Additional redevelopment from
mid-morning Tuesday through the afternoon to early evening could
bring tornadoes, large hail up to golf ball size and damaging
wind gusts.

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

Areas of flash flooding likely late tonight through Tuesday. Some
roads could be flooded or closed, and some structures may be
potentially threatened by high water.

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

Strong winds are expected outside of thunderstorms tonight into
early Tuesday morning. A few trees and large limbs may break and
fall due to sustained winds of 20 to 25 mph and wind of 30-
40 mph. High profile vehicles should exercise caution.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/4.png)

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Tuesday night 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 tonight
through Tuesday.

LAZ008-015-032230-
West Carroll-Richland-
424 PM CST Mon Jan 2 2023

This hazardous weather outlook is for portions of northeast
Louisiana.

.DAY ONE...Tonight and Tuesday

FLOODING
THREAT...Elevated
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Slight
TIMING...Mainly Tonight

NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

Areas of flash flooding likely late tonight through Tuesday. Some
roads could be flooded or closed, and some structures may be
potentially threatened by high water.

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

Severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging
wind gusts, and hail up to quarter size are possible from late
tonight into early Tuesday morning. Additional redevelopment from
mid-morning Tuesday through the afternoon to early evening could
bring tornadoes, large hail up to golf ball size and damaging
wind gusts.

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

Strong winds are expected outside of thunderstorms tonight into
early Tuesday morning. A few trees and large limbs may break and
fall due to sustained winds of 20 to 25 mph and wind of 30-
40 mph. High profile vehicles should exercise caution.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/4.png)

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Tuesday night 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 tonight
through Tuesday.

MSZ046-051-055-032230-
Kemper-Newton-Simpson-
424 PM CST Mon Jan 2 2023

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

.DAY ONE...Tonight and Tuesday

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Slight
TIMING...Tuesday

FLOODING
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Tuesday

Severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging
wind gusts, and hail up to quarter size are possible from late
tonight into early Tuesday morning. Additional redevelopment from
mid-morning Tuesday through the afternoon to early evening could
bring tornadoes, large hail up to golf ball size and damaging
wind gusts.

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

Localized flash flooding is possible late tonight through Tuesday
morning, particularly in low lying and urban areas.

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

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Tuesday night 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 Tuesday.

LAZ024>026-MSZ047-060-032230-
Catahoula-Tensas-Concordia-Warren-Adams-
424 PM CST Mon Jan 2 2023

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

.DAY ONE...Tonight and Tuesday

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Slight
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

FLOODING
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

Severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging
wind gusts, and hail up to quarter size are possible from late
tonight into early Tuesday morning. Additional redevelopment from
mid-morning Tuesday through the afternoon to early evening could
bring tornadoes, large hail up to golf ball size and damaging
wind gusts.

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

Localized flash flooding is possible late tonight through Tuesday
morning, particularly in low lying and urban areas.

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

Strong winds are expected outside of thunderstorms tonight into
early Tuesday morning. A few trees and large limbs may break and
fall due to sustained winds of 20 to 25 mph and wind of 30-
40 mph. High profile vehicles should exercise caution.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/4.png)

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Tuesday night 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 tonight
through Tuesday.

MSZ043-048-049-054-061-032230-
Madison MS-Hinds-Rankin-Copiah-Franklin MS-
424 PM CST Mon Jan 2 2023

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

.DAY ONE...Tonight and Tuesday

NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Slight
TIMING...Mainly Tuesday

FLOODING
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Tuesday

Strong winds are expected outside of thunderstorms tonight into
early Tuesday morning. A few trees and large limbs may break and
fall due to sustained winds of 20 to 25 mph and wind of 30-
40 mph. High profile vehicles should exercise caution.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/4.png)

Severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging
wind gusts, and hail up to quarter size are possible from late
tonight into early Tuesday morning. Additional redevelopment from
mid-morning Tuesday through the afternoon to early evening could
bring tornadoes, large hail up to golf ball size and damaging
wind gusts.

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

Localized flash flooding is possible late tonight through Tuesday
morning, particularly in low lying and urban areas.

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

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Tuesday night 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 tonight
through Tuesday.

MSZ052-056>058-062>066-072>074-032230-
Lauderdale-Smith-Jasper-Clarke-Lincoln-Lawrence-Jefferson Davis-
Covington-Jones-Marion-Lamar-Forrest-
424 PM CST Mon Jan 2 2023

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

.DAY ONE...Tonight and Tuesday

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Enhanced
TIMING...Tuesday

FLOODING
THREAT...Limited
TIMING...Tuesday

Severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging
wind gusts, and hail up to half dollar are likely late tonight
through early Tuesday morning. Additional redevelopment from mid-
morning Tuesday through the afternoon to early evening could
bring tornadoes (can't rule out a strong tornado), large hail up
to golf ball size and damaging wind gusts.

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

Localized flash flooding is possible late tonight through Tuesday
morning, particularly in low lying and urban areas.

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

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Tuesday night 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 Tuesday.

MSZ025-032230-
Leflore-
424 PM CST Mon Jan 2 2023

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

.DAY ONE...Tonight and Tuesday

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS
THREAT...Slight
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

FLOODING
THREAT...Elevated
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS
THREAT...Elevated
TIMING...Tonight through Tuesday

Severe thunderstorms capable of producing tornadoes, damaging
wind gusts, and hail up to quarter size are possible from late
tonight into early Tuesday morning. Additional redevelopment from
mid-morning Tuesday through the afternoon to early evening could
bring tornadoes, large hail up to golf ball size and damaging
wind gusts.

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

Areas of flash flooding likely late tonight through Tuesday. Some
roads could be flooded or closed, and some structures may be
potentially threatened by high water.

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

Strong winds are expected outside of thunderstorms tonight into
early Tuesday morning. Some downed trees and powerlines are
possible due to sustained winds of 20 to 25 mph and wind gusts up
to 45 mph. Travel may be difficult for high profile vehicles.

(https://www.weather.gov/images/jan/graphicast/4.png)

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Tuesday night 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 tonight
through Tuesday.

23

&&

...HAZARD LEGEND...

*SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS*
High...Significant severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are
 likely with strong or violent tornadoes possible.
Moderate...Significant severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are
 likely with strong tornadoes possible.
Enhanced...Severe thunderstorms are likely and tornadoes are
 possible.
Slight...Severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are possible.
Marginal...Isolated severe thunderstorms are possible.

*FLOODING*
Extreme...Widespread and significant flooding is likely.
Significant...Widespread flash flooding is likely
 and significant flooding is possible.
Elevated...Areas of flash flooding likely.
Limited...Localized flash flooding is possible.

*NON-THUNDERSTORM WINDS*
Significant...Scattered downed trees and power lines are likely
 due to sustained winds over 35 mph and potential wind gusts
 greater than 50 mph.
Elevated...A few downed trees and power lines are possible due
 to sustained winds ranging from 25 to 35 mph and potential for
 wind gusts over 40 mph. Travel will also be difficult for those
 in high profile vehicles.
Limited...Weak trees and limbs may break and fall due to
 sustained winds up to 25 mph and wind gusts around 35 mph.
 High profile vehicles could also be affected.

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The radar

The Jackson/Brandon,MS radar (KDGX), 187 km away, was scanning. The volume nearest the first event began at 00:54 UTC.

Open the radar archive at this moment

Event by event

9 thunderstorm wind, 3 tornado, 3 flash flood. Local standard time, as filed.

Tornado, Ashley

When
January 2, 6:54 PM CST to 7:30 PM CST
Where
Ashley County, 2.65 mi S of Berlin to 1.78 mi SE of Boydell
Rating
EF2
Path length
28.01 mi
Path width
1,300 yd
Continued into
Chicot, Ar (JAN)
Property damage
$500,000
Reported by
NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates
33.042, -91.770

This tornado began near the intersection of Ashley 270 Road and Ashley 25 Road west of the Overflow National Wildlife Refuge in southern Ashley County. As it moved northeast, the tornado uprooted, snapped, or damaged trees along its path. It crossed over several highways, county roads, and low-lying areas through the county until it reached Montrose near the intersection of US Highway 82 and 165. There the tornado intensified to its maximum intensity of EF-2 with estimated peak winds of 120 mph. Along US 82 near 9th Street, a small guest home on concrete blocks was pushed off its foundation and destroyed. A nearby mobile home was rolled across three parked cars which were also destroyed. Several sheds and outbuildings were destroyed in the immediate vicinity as well. Widespread damage was common in the western part of town where many homes suffered minor to moderate roof damage. Several trees were uprooted or snapped along with continued minor to moderate residential damage as the tornado moved northeast and across northern Montrose. It crossed US 165 north of Montrose where an outbuilding was destroyed. As the tornado moved into farmland northeast of town, a center pivot irrigation system was destroyed. It continued northeast into Chicot County and across the intersection of Arkansas Highways 144 and 293 where a home and several buildings lost roofing and paneling, and some power poles were blown down. The tornado crossed US Highway 65 and Cedar Road near the Bellaire community in northern Chicot County, blew down a few power poles and damaged a few trees, and then dissipated shortly after crossing into Desha County.

Thunderstorm Wind, Ashley

When
January 2, 7:17 PM CST to 7:19 PM CST
Where
Ashley County, 1.73 mi E of Portland
Measured
61 kt (70 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$100,000
Reported by
NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates
33.230, -91.490

Numerous buildings suffered roofing damage consisting of primarily shingle loss or tin peeling. Several large branches were also downed. Damage was consistent with strong southerly winds and stretched from Portland eastward along Highway 160. The most substantial damage occurred to an outbuilding that suffered enough roof damage to have insulation strewn down wind.

Thunderstorm Wind, Chicot

When
January 2, 7:17 PM CST to 7:18 PM CST
Where
Chicot County, 6.46 mi NNW of Empire
Measured
52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$10,000
Reported by
NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates
33.210, -91.460

A shed had the roof peeled and a wall pushed inward in this area.

Thunderstorm Wind, Ashley

When
January 2, 7:23 PM CST to 7:24 PM CST
Where
Ashley County, 0.9 mi SW of Montrose
Measured
52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$10,000
Reported by
Public
Coordinates
33.290, -91.510

Tractor trailer overturned, structure damage on Highway 82 west of Montrose Arkansas.

Thunderstorm Wind, Ashley

When
January 2, 7:24 PM CST to 7:25 PM CST
Where
Ashley County, Montrose
Measured
52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$50,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
33.300, -91.500

Families trapped in homes due to downed trees and powerlines on West 3rd street and West 2nd street in Montrose Arkansas.

Tornado, Chicot

When
January 2, 7:30 PM CST to 7:43 PM CST
Where
Chicot County, 4.91 mi NW of Cosgrove to 3.04 mi E of Halley Jct
Rating
EF2
Path length
14.19 mi
Path width
1,300 yd
Continued into
Desha, Ar (LZK)
Property damage
$200,000
Reported by
NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates
33.352, -91.458

This tornado began near the intersection of Ashley 270 Road and Ashley 25 Road west of the Overflow National Wildlife Refuge in southern Ashley County. As it moved northeast, the tornado uprooted, snapped, or damaged trees along its path. It crossed over several highways, county roads, and low-lying areas through the county until it reached Montrose near the intersection of US Highway 82 and 165. There the tornado intensified to its maximum intensity of EF-2 with estimated peak winds of 120 mph. Along US 82 near 9th Street, a small guest home on concrete blocks was pushed off its foundation and destroyed. A nearby mobile home was rolled across three parked cars which were also destroyed. Several sheds and outbuildings were destroyed in the immediate vicinity as well. Widespread damage was common in the western part of town where many homes suffered minor to moderate roof damage. Several trees were uprooted or snapped along with continued minor to moderate residential damage as the tornado moved northeast and across northern Montrose. It crossed US 165 north of Montrose where an outbuilding was destroyed. As the tornado moved into farmland northeast of town, a center pivot irrigation system was destroyed. It continued northeast into Chicot County and across the intersection of Arkansas Highways 144 and 293 where a home and several buildings lost roofing and paneling, and some power poles were blown down. The tornado crossed US Highway 65 and Cedar Road near the Bellaire community in northern Chicot County, blew down a few power poles and damaged a few trees, and then dissipated shortly after crossing into Desha County.

Thunderstorm Wind, Chicot

When
January 2, 7:36 PM CST
Where
Chicot County, 2.88 mi W of Macon Lake
Measured
51 kt (59 mph) measured gust
Reported by
Mesonet
Coordinates
33.420, -91.370

A wind gusts to 59 mph was reported from a private weather station near the Beouf River.

Thunderstorm Wind, Chicot

When
January 2, 7:40 PM CST
Where
Chicot County, 2.07 mi S of Mc Millian Corner
Measured
50 kt (58 mph) measured gust
Reported by
Mesonet
Coordinates
33.350, -91.320

Measured at private weather station at lake village municipal airport.

Tornado, Chicot

When
January 2, 9:07 PM CST to 9:08 PM CST
Where
Chicot County, 5.4 mi SW of Indian to 5.19 mi WSW of Indian
Rating
EF0
Path length
0.44 mi
Path width
250 yd
Property damage
$20,000
Reported by
NWS Storm Survey
Coordinates
33.006, -91.377

This tornado developed along Creech Rd, where minor roof damage occurred to a home and a trampoline was tossed, some small trees were snapped, and several large limbs were downed. It continued northeastward, crossing Pine Grove Rd where multiple sheds and a small trailer were damaged, additional trees were downed, and a home experienced shingle damage. Two more homes received minor roof damage and two more sheds were damaged as the tornado crossed LA Hwy 585. One small shed was demolished and another was damaged along Dawson Rd before the tornado turned more northward. As the tornado crossed Arkla Rd at the Arkansas state line, a home sustained shingle damage and a trampoline was tossed, then a barn was blown down and a shed was tossed before the tornado dissipated shortly thereafter.

Flash Flood, Ashley

When
January 3, 7:05 AM CST to 10:00 AM CST
Where
Ashley County, 0.58 mi E of Hamburg to 0.29 mi ESE of Hamburg
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$20,000
Reported by
Trained Spotter
Coordinates
33.230, -91.810

Flooding reported on Washington Street and Ashley Road.

Flash Flood, Chicot

When
January 3, 7:30 AM CST to 10:00 AM CST
Where
Chicot County, 0.58 mi W of Dermott to 0.48 mi W of Dermott
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$5,000
Reported by
Trained Spotter
Coordinates
33.520, -91.440

Speedway Street Flooded.

Thunderstorm Wind, Chicot

When
January 3, 7:34 AM CST to 7:35 AM CST
Where
Chicot County, 0.58 mi W of Bowman
Measured
52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$2,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
33.450, -91.310

Trees were reported downed in the area.

Thunderstorm Wind, Chicot

When
January 3, 7:35 AM CST to 7:36 AM CST
Where
Chicot County, 0.9 mi NW of Chicot
Measured
52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$25,000
Reported by
Emergency Manager
Coordinates
33.210, -91.290

Trees and powerlines were reported down around the county.

Thunderstorm Wind, Chicot

When
January 3, 7:45 AM CST to 7:46 AM CST
Where
Chicot County, 0.69 mi S of Gum Corner
Measured
52 kt (60 mph) estimated gust
Property damage
$20,000
Reported by
Public
Coordinates
33.160, -91.280

Trees and powerlines were reported downed in the area.

Flash Flood, Ashley

When
January 3, 7:45 AM CST to 10:00 AM CST
Where
Ashley County, 1.86 mi ENE of Fountain Hill to 1.77 mi ENE of Fountain Hill
Cause
Heavy Rain
Property damage
$5,000
Reported by
Public
Coordinates
33.360, -91.850

Water was up to the porch of a house near Fountain Hill.

What these are

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.
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.
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 Arkansas in 2023Every state in 2023This day in weather historyThe tornado archive for Arkansas, 2023Warnings in Arkansas, January 2023

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: 1101741, 1101746, 1101748, 1101749, 1101759, 1102152, 1101782, 1101784, 1101739, 1101845, 1101847, 1101776, 1101778, 1101780, 1101848.