NATCHEZ — As Hurricane Gustav inched towards the coast Adams County Civil Defense Director Stan Owens held an early morning briefing for Natchez’s city officials and first responders.

Owens said by the late afternoon the Natchez area would be experiencing wind gusts of up to 70mph with sustained winds of approximately 30-40 mph and heavy rains.

Owens also said the area is under a tornado watch.

Owens said during that time no one should attempt to cross the Mississippi River Bridge.

Adams County Sheriff Ronny Brown said no businesses will be forced to close but there will be a dusk till dawn curfew.

While that curfew goes into effect at 6 p.m. Owens said no one should be out on the roads past 2 p.m.