Weather is a very important force into today's economy and everyday life. Smith County, being in south Mississippi, experiences almost every weather condition at some point during the year.

The main weather phenomena that the county faces each year is extreme heat. However, the county is also susceptible to severe weather, hurricanes, and winter storms.

​July is the hottest month for Smith County with an average high temperature of 91.0°, which ranks it as cooler than most places in Mississippi. In Smith County, there are 3 comfortable months with high temperatures in the range of 70-85°. The most pleasant months of the year for Smith County are October, April and May.

Current Conditions Raleigh, MS

Current Conditions Taylorsville, MS

Current Conditions Mize, MS

Severe Weather

Smith County is not immune from severe weather. In fact, we are a hot bed for tornado activity in Mississippi every year, averaging more long-track, violent tornadoes than any other area in the state. Most severe weather events happen in two seasons during the year, the first being from mid-February through June, and the second from October through December. However, severe weather can happen year-round in the Gulf South. The Smith County Emergency Management Agency works tirelessly day and night to try and keep you and your family safe from the threat of severe weather. You can do your part by signing up for CodeRED Weather Warnings on your mobile phone, and by following Smith County EMA on Facebook.

learn more about the smith county emergency management agency

Hurricane Season

Mississippi is a Gulf Coast state, and that is something we all take great pride in. However, the Gulf Coast offers more than just beautiful sandy beaches, great seafood and vacation memories with you and your family. The reality of this came true on August 29th, 2005 when a Category 4 Hurricane Katrina ravaged the Gulf Coast.

Being located only 100 miles from the Gulf Coast at our closest point, Smith County is within striking distance of any tropical system that comes into the Gulf. That is why is is crucially important that each year, you and your family go over a disaster plan, discuss evacuation routes, and familiarize yourself with the steps you need to take to survive a hurricane.

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and the Mississippi Department of Transportation both prepare detailed guides each hurricane season to help you survive the storm.

Official evacuation routes in Smith County for the 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season include State Routes 35, 13, and 28. Auxiliary routes include State Route 37, SR 18, and SR 531.

download the 2020 hurricane preparedness guide

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download the 2020 hurricane evacuation guide

Other Hazards

Extreme Heat

Temperatures in Smith County can average 95°F during the summer, with heat indices in the 105-110°F range! That is why it is so important to keep yourself cool!

Winter Storms

Smith County is not immune to snow and ice. We average around 2.5" of snowfall a year. Most winter storms occur in January.

Lightning

Lightning is a hazard year-round, but not just in thunderstorms. Mississippi's humid climate can produce lightning storms even with no precipitation!

It's on you.

Your state, county, and local governments are prepared to respond after any weather event, but the first level of preparedness starts with YOU. Make sure that you get your family ready now. Know where you will go and what supplies you will need to take with you. Prepare for days, perhaps weeks without electricity after the storm passes. Be sure to discuss your evacuation plan and have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts and warnings.