NATCHEZ — Severe storms are expected to hit the area beginning this afternoon and moving into the evening.

“Expect strong thunderstorms coming across during the afternoon hours, damaging winds, hail and maybe a few tornadoes,” National Weather Service, Jackson, Meteorologist Mark McAllister said.

Gusty winds between 30 and 35 miles per hour are expected.

“They could knock down branches, maybe a few weak trees,” McAllister said.

By 6 p.m., a cold front will push through causing more storms, he said.

Adams County Emergency Management Director Stan Owens said the area east of Adams County will be more likely to see tornadic activity.

But in the advent of tornadoes in Adams County, he said the EMA is prepared with its tornado sirens.

“They’re all in good shape,” he said.

He said he expects rain to begin fairly early on and he was expecting it to start on Monday. The forecast shows it will increase throughout the day.

Between one quarter and one half an inch of rainfall is expected.

Owens said if it hails, stay indoors.

“Don’t get caught in it,” he said.

And for other storm preparation, Owens suggested to just be informed.

“Somewhere around dark everybody should just be watching the weather real close,” he said.

Wednesday’s forecast shows continued rain with a 60 percent chance.

The cold front that will pass through is expected to drop Tuesday’s 70-degree temperatures into the 40s on Wednesday.