Special Weather Statement: Strong Storm Near Shaw
A Special Weather Statement is highlighting a strong thunderstorm moving across parts of the Mississippi Delta, with Northern Chicot, Northern Sunflower, Northwestern Leflore, Northwestern Washington, and Bolivar Counties included in the affected area.
The storm was located approximately 7 miles northwest of Shaw, Mississippi, or 9 miles southwest of Cleveland, and was moving east at about 10 mph. Residents and travelers should remain alert for rapidly changing conditions as the storm progresses eastward.
Special Weather Statement: What to Know
The thunderstorm is classified as strong rather than severe at this time, meaning conditions may be capable of producing locally hazardous weather even though the storm does not currently meet the criteria for a Severe Thunderstorm Warning.
Strong thunderstorms can still produce:
- Gusty winds
- Frequent lightning
- Brief heavy rainfall
- Reduced visibility
- Ponding of water on roadways
- Small hail in stronger portions of the storm
- Sudden hazardous driving conditions
Because thunderstorms can strengthen quickly, residents should continue monitoring updated weather information.
Areas Being Monitored
The Special Weather Statement covers portions of the northern Mississippi Delta and nearby areas, including:
Northern Chicot County
Northern Chicot County is included in the statement, with residents encouraged to monitor the storm’s eastward movement and be prepared for periods of heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds.
Northern Sunflower County
Northern Sunflower County is also within the affected region. Outdoor activities and travel could be temporarily disrupted as the storm moves through.
Northwestern Leflore County
Residents in northwestern Leflore County should watch for changing conditions as the thunderstorm continues eastward.
Northwestern Washington County
Northwestern Washington County remains within the area of concern, particularly for sudden wind gusts, lightning and reduced visibility.
Bolivar County
Bolivar County is another area being monitored as the storm moves east. Anyone outdoors should move indoors when thunder is heard.
Storm Moving East at 10 MPH
The thunderstorm’s reported movement is relatively slow, traveling east at approximately 10 mph.
That slower movement can allow heavier rainfall to persist over individual locations for a longer period compared with a fast-moving storm. Localized ponding may therefore develop, particularly in low-lying areas and locations with poor drainage.
Drivers should avoid driving through water covering roadways because it can be deeper or moving faster than it appears.
Lightning Remains a Major Threat
Even when a thunderstorm is not considered severe, lightning can be dangerous.
If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning. Move indoors to a substantial building or an enclosed vehicle and remain there until the storm has passed.
Avoid open fields, isolated trees, water, and other exposed locations during the storm.
Could the Storm Become Severe?
Strong thunderstorms can intensify. If the storm develops more significant damaging winds, large hail, or other severe characteristics, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning could potentially be issued.
For that reason, residents should not rely solely on the current Special Weather Statement. Continue checking updated weather information as the storm moves through the region.
Travel Safety Across the Mississippi Delta
If traveling through Northern Chicot, Northern Sunflower, Northwestern Leflore, Northwestern Washington, or Bolivar Counties, expect conditions to change quickly near the thunderstorm.
Drivers should:
- Slow down when heavy rain begins.
- Turn on headlights when visibility decreases.
- Increase following distance.
- Avoid flooded or water-covered roads.
- Never drive around barricades.
- Pull over safely if lightning, heavy rain, or strong winds make travel hazardous.
Radar Watch HQ Final Thoughts
This Special Weather Statement serves as an important reminder that severe weather is not the only weather capable of creating dangerous conditions. The strong thunderstorm near Shaw and Cleveland is moving east at approximately 10 mph, bringing the potential for lightning, gusty winds, heavy rainfall and rapidly changing travel conditions.
Residents across Northern Chicot, Northern Sunflower, Northwestern Leflore, Northwestern Washington and Bolivar Counties should keep weather information nearby and remain prepared for additional updates.
Stay weather-aware, take lightning seriously, and be ready to move indoors if the storm approaches.
Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Radar Watch HQ earns from qualifying purchases.
Radar Watch HQ Top 5 Essential Emergency Preparedness Picks
Whether you’re preparing for severe thunderstorms, flash flooding, hurricanes, wildfires, or extended power outages, these five emergency essentials can help keep your household safer when severe weather strikes.
A portable power station provides reliable backup electricity during outages, allowing you to power phones, medical devices, laptops, lights, small appliances, and communication equipment without fuel.
Best for:
- Extended power outages
- Severe thunderstorms
- Hurricanes
- Winter storms
- Wildfires
2. Flood Protection Barriers & Sandless Flood Bags
Flood barriers help divert or absorb water before it enters garages, doorways, and low-lying areas. They deploy quickly and can help reduce property damage during flash flooding.
Best for:
- Flash Flood Warnings
- Heavy rainfall
- River flooding
- Coastal flooding
3. Rechargeable LED Flashlights
Bright, dependable flashlights are essential when the power goes out. Rechargeable or solar-powered models provide long-lasting illumination for navigating safely indoors and outdoors.
Best for:
- Overnight power outages
- Emergency evacuations
- Storm damage inspections
Keep phones, tablets, weather radios, and USB-powered devices charged when the electrical grid is unavailable. A solar power bank offers an additional charging option during prolonged emergencies.
Best for:
- Communication during outages
- Emergency weather alerts
- Travel and evacuation
A NOAA Weather Radio delivers official weather alerts directly from the National Weather Service, even when cellular networks or internet service are unavailable. It remains one of the most dependable ways to receive life-saving warnings.
Best for:
- Tornado warnings
- Severe thunderstorm warnings
- Flash flood warnings
- Hurricane alerts
- Winter storm emergencies
Why Radar Watch HQ Recommends These Essentials
At Radar Watch HQ, preparedness is just as important as staying informed. These five emergency essentials can help you stay connected, protect your property, and safely navigate severe weather events. Having supplies ready before storms arrive allows you to respond quickly when warnings are issued and conditions begin to deteriorate.
