UPDATE 4:40 p.m.: The worst of the severe weather has passed the Miss-Lou, according to a National Weather Service meteorologist.

Heavy rains and thunderstorms that passed through Natchez this afternoon have moved through the area and left cooler temperatures, said NWS meteorologist Joanne Culin.

“We’ve definitely seen some severe weather throughout the state, but we haven’t gotten many reports from the Natchez area of damage,” Culin said. “In terms of severe weather, that has moved out and the rain will continue for a while longer.”

Culin said temperatures in Natchez were recorded at 81 degrees at 2 p.m. and dropped significantly to 63 degrees by 4:30 p.m.

Adams County and Concordia remain under a tornado watch until 9 p.m. and under a hazardous weather advisory until 6 p.m.

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UPDATE 3:12 p.m.: Natchez city government has closed for the afternoon in response to the weather.

Mayor’s Assistant Temple Hendricks said the closure was to allow city employees the chance to get home safely before heavy storms hit the area.

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NATCHEZ — Adams County and Concordia Parish are under a tornado watch until 9 p.m. today.

The National Weather Service issued the watch and a hazardous weather advisory this morning stating that severe thunderstorms are expected throughout the afternoon, mainly from noon to 6 p.m.

Damaging winds in excess of 60 mph along with a few tornadoes and large hail are expected.

A tornado watch is issued by the NWS when conditions are favorable for tornadoes or severe thunderstorms.