On Saturday, December 27, 2024, Meridian, Mississippi and the surrounding area will be under a severe weather threat.

Mike Edmonston, lead forecaster for the National Weather Service in Jackson, Mississippi, said, “There will be tornadoes and large hail.”

According to the National Weather Service, the storm ranks at a 3 out of 5 on the severe thunderstorm risk categories. A three represents an enhanced storm, meaning people should be prepared for the  possibility of numerous severe storms. With an enhanced risk, storms will be more persistent and/or widespread with a few very intense areas.

The threat will start early that morning, and get worse as the day goes on.

“Expect heavy rain, but the main threats are the damaging winds and tornadoes,” said Edmonston.