Mississippi Faces Dangerous Below-Zero Wind Chills as Arctic Air Tightens Grip This Weekend
MISSISSIPPI — Forecast data shows an intensifying Arctic cold outbreak setting up across Mississippi this weekend, with dangerously low wind chill values expected statewide, especially during the early morning hours Saturday. The combination of very cold air and persistent north winds will make conditions feel far colder than actual temperatures, creating a serious cold-weather hazard across the region.
Wind Chill Values Dropping Into Single Digits and Below Zero
The most dangerous conditions are expected across central and northern Mississippi, where wind chill values may fall into the single digits and even below zero. Cities such as Clarksdale, Tupelo, Jackson, and Meridian are all within the zone of sub-zero wind chills, especially during the pre-dawn hours.
These values are cold enough to cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 15 to 30 minutes, making this one of the most significant cold snaps of the season so far.
Cold Air Reaches the Mississippi Gulf Coast
Even areas along the Mississippi Gulf Coast, which typically avoid the worst of Arctic outbreaks, are expected to experience unusually harsh cold. Coastal communities including Gulfport and Pascagoula may see wind chills near zero, while actual air temperatures settle into the low 20s.
Just inland from the coast, temperatures may drop into the upper teens, particularly where winds remain elevated overnight.
Strong North Winds Will Intensify the Cold
A key factor in this event is brisk north winds, which will remain in place through Friday night and into Saturday morning. These winds will rapidly strip away body heat, making outdoor exposure far more dangerous than temperature readings alone suggest. The coldest period is expected late Friday night through mid-morning Saturday, before conditions slowly improve later in the day.
Increased Risks for People, Pets, and Infrastructure
With wind chills this low, hypothermia becomes a real concern, especially for anyone spending extended time outdoors. Pets, livestock, exposed pipes, and unprotected plumbing systems are also at heightened risk.
Residents are urged to:
- Limit time outdoors
- Wear layered, insulated clothing
- Protect pets and livestock
- Insulate exposed pipes
- Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors
What to Expect After the Weekend
While temperatures are expected to slowly moderate after the weekend, this Arctic outbreak represents one of the coldest stretches Mississippi has experienced this winter, particularly for southern parts of the state that rarely see wind chills this low.
Forecast confidence remains high that dangerous cold conditions will occur, and preparations should be completed before temperatures drop further.
Have you noticed the cold already intensifying where you live? Share what you’re experiencing and stay updated with continued coverage from SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
