Severe weather and tornadoes top the week

Meteorologists at the weather service’s Storm Prediction Center say the most risky storms are likely to strike southern sections of Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana and the western tip of the Florida Panhandle.

National Weather Service officials say the storms caused building damage and uprooted trees.

We had gorgeous weather over the weekend across South Mississippi, with plenty in the way of warm weather and even some sunshine, but a big change is on the way for the area.

Some of the same communities at risk are still dealing with the aftermath left by the severe weather early last week. However, the exact placement of that heavier band will depend on where we see the greatest overlap between the available cold air and moisture on the northwest side of where the area of low pressure tracks. Rains will be light to moderate at times with the heaviest amounts falling over northern and central Louisiana. If you live south of I-20, you have a better chance of severe weather as opposed to those of you who live north of I-20.

Storms are expected to develop starting Tuesday afternoon ahead of the front – and some of the individual storms could become supercellular. Temperatures will be mild for February, and dewpoints are expected to climb into the 60s across much of the state by Tuesday afternoon.

There is a 60-80 percent chance for showers and storms in the seven day forecast through Wednesday across our area.

Strong wind shear is anticipated to be in place with a low-level jet moving into the area. A tornado or severe thunderstorm watch will certainly be issued sometime Tuesday.

Winter storm systems typically bring a lot of wind shear but have low instability levels, which can help mitigate the severe threat.