Severe thunderstorms with heavy rainfall are possible today in Newton County as a cold front pushes through the area.
According to a National Weather Service advisory, damaging wind gusts will be the primary hazard, but a tornado cannot be ruled out.
Areas of flash flooding are likely and some roads could be flooded or closed, with rainfall totals near 3 to 5 inches possible. Some structures may be potentially threatened by high water. Minor river flooding is also possible.
Non-thunderstorm wind gusts of up to 40 mph will be possible through this afternoon. A few downed trees and power lines are possible, especially where the soil is saturated following recent rainfall. Travel will also be difficult for those in high profile vehicles.
A tornado watch is also in effect for Leake, Scott and Smith counties until 6 p.m., but Newton County was not included in the watch area as of midday today. A watch area could be extended to the area, as the Storm Prediction Center placed the area under a slight risk for severe weather.
Graphics courtesy of The National Weather Service.
