This is how much rain South MS has gotten this week and when to expect this wet weather to end
South Mississippi has experienced heavy rainfall this week — flooding rivers and impacting traffic patterns — and it’s not letting up yet, according to national forecasters.
As of May 24, Gulfport racked up a three-day rainfall total of 7.19 inches, according to the National Weather Service in New Orleans.
Here’s what you should know to stay safe on the Coast as showers and storms continue.
How long will the rain last?
Showers and thunderstorms continue to be likely for the next week, through at least Tuesday, June 2, according to forecasters at the National Weather Service.
A flood watch is in effect for the area until 7 p.m. May 27, weather experts said.
AccuWeather experts also warned that the storms would continue throughout the remainder of May.
What’s causing the rain?
The heavy rainfall and storms are caused by a surge of tropical moisture mixing with a stalled front, according to AccuWeather experts.
“A front drifting southward will stall across the South this week as waves of low pressure track along it,” experts said. “The setup will produce widespread showers and thunderstorms capable of dumping 2 to 8 inches of rain across a broad area, with localized higher and lower totals.”
The storms stretch from Texas to Florida, according to the forecast.
How to stay safe during flooding in South MS
Here are some safety tips for flooding in South Mississippi, according to the American Red Cross:
- Avoid any flooded areas and any areas subject to flooding like dips, rivers, streams, creeks and storm drains
- Do not try to drive over flowing streams or water covered roads
- Try to get to higher ground if caught in a flash flood
- Turn around and find a different route if you come upon floodwater, rapidly rising water or barricades
- Don’t let kids play in or near flood water as it may be contaminated with sewage
