East Mississippi residents will want to keep an eye on the skies as severe weather is expected to move into the area Saturday afternoon.

 

The National Weather Service in Jackson is forecasting damaging winds of up to 70 miles per hour and likely tornadoes for much of the central part of the state.

 

Storms are expected to make their way east across the state beginning around 4 p.m., with the main threat of severe weather for Meridian and Lauderdale County from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m.

 

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency is encouraging residents to make preparations ahead of the weather, including having multiple ways to receive weather alerts, knowing a safe place to go in the event of a tornado and to never drive through flooded areas.