Meridian and Lauderdale County residents are encouraged to keep an eye on the forecast heading into the weekend as the threat for winter storms grows for early next week.

 

According to the National Weather Service in Jackson, an arctic air mass will move through the area beginning Saturday night bringing unusually cold temperatures with it. Daily lows will be in the teens, and highs will be in the mid 30’s.

 

Extended periods of below-freezing temperatures may present dangers of freezing pipes and hypothermia or frostbite for those venturing outdoors without proper protection, the weather service warned in its forecast.

 

Cold, however, won’t be the only winter feature on the way as the threat of snow or other winter precipitation increases for early next week. Weather models are mixed on how much accumulation Mississippians may see, but the most snowfall is expected Tuesday along the Highway 84 corridor in the southern part of the state.

 

Meridian and Lauderdale County may see some accumulation of snow or sleet, according to the National Weather Service’s forecast, and travel may be impacted by the weather.

 

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency on Friday urged residents to make preparations ahead of the arriving cold front. In a social media post, the agency said Mississippians should make plans to check on vulnerable friends and neighbors, bring pets and plants inside and insulate pipes to avoid freezing.

 

Residents are also encouraged to leave faucets dripping during below-freezing temperatures to prevent ice buildup inside water lines.

 

For more information about how to prepare for winter weather, visit msema.org.