Chase Franks

Mississippi, where do I even begin?

Six years ago, I came here as a college student chasing a dream. I never could have imagined how much this state would shape my life.

I started my career in Meridian at WTOK, where I spent two years learning what it meant to be a meteorologist and building friendships that will last a lifetime. Mississippi also gave me my wife, my degree, and so many memories I’ll always cherish.

For nearly the last three years at WLBT, I’ve worked in one of the toughest weather markets in the country. Over the last five years in Mississippi, I’ve covered countless impactful weather events, from the tornadoes in Rolling Fork, Louin, Tylertown, and Bogue Chitto to historic ice and snow storms and Hurricane Francine. Those experiences shaped the meteorologist I am today.

I’ve spent my entire adult life in Mississippi, and this state will always hold a special place in my heart. But after six incredible years here, Hope and I felt it was time for a new adventure and a change of pace. If you know me, you know returning to Texas has always been a dream of mine. Because of everything Mississippi has taught me, I’m excited to say that dream is becoming a reality.

I’m excited to share that I’ll be joining KVUE in Austin as their newest meteorologist, where I’ll trade one capital city for another as I begin this next chapter.

My last day at WLBT will be June 26.

Thank you, Mississippi, for welcoming me into your homes, supporting me, and helping shape both my career and my life. This isn’t goodbye forever.

After all, I did marry a Mississippi woman.

🌦️ After weeks of seemingly endless rain, Central Mississippi may finally be catching a break.

Don't expect a completely dry weekend, though. Showers and thunderstorms remain in the forecast, especially on Saturday, but rain will be more scattered instead of the widespread soaking we've dealt with recently.

Most areas can expect around 1 to 2 inches of rainfall through Sunday, with temperatures climbing into the upper 80s and lower 90s. Humidity will stay high, making it feel closer to 100° at times.

The bigger story? The atmosphere is beginning to lose some of the tropical moisture that's fueled our recent wet pattern. While daily storm chances aren't going away, next week looks more like a typical Mississippi summer with hit-or-miss afternoon storms instead of all-day rain.

⛈️ Keep the umbrella nearby this weekend, but brighter and hotter days are ahead.

WLBT 3 On Your Side

ew...

Did Mississippi just break a record for most rain in 24hours? This type of event happens every 2 or 3...centuries. 20+" of rain indicated by radar today near Wiggins. The state's record before today was almost 16" near Columbus in 1968.

More than 8,000 customers are without power across Mississippi, and that number continues to grow.

Rain and wind can quickly lead to situations like this. A tree is down here at the station.

Please stay weather aware today. Severe storms are possible, but the main concern will be heavy rainfall and flooding. Watch for trees and downed limbs, and if you encounter water covered roads, remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.

Flash Flood Warning for Covington, Forrest, Jones, and Lamar Counties until 8:45am.

🚨 FIRST ALERT WEATHER DAY 🚨

🌧️ The remnants of Post-Tropical Storm Arthur continue to bring deep tropical moisture into Mississippi today, setting the stage for periods of heavy rain and a growing flash flood threat.

⚠️ Flooding is our biggest concern, especially in low-lying areas, poor drainage locations, and along creeks and streams. Some spots could see several inches of rain through Friday, with locally higher amounts possible.

🌪️ While an isolated spin-up tornado cannot be ruled out, the flooding threat will have the greatest impact for most locations.

🚗 If you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around and find another route. Never drive through water covering the road.

📲 Stay with us throughout the day as we track the rain, flooding concerns, and any stronger storms that develop.

WLBT 3 On Your Side

We're up early and keeping a close eye on the radar this morning. Areas of rain and a few thunderstorms continue to move across Mississippi, but the good news is that everything remains below severe limits for now.

That said, a Tornado Watch remains in effect south of our area until 6 AM, and we'll be watching closely for any signs of stronger storms as the morning progresses. While an isolated spin-up tornado can't be ruled out, the biggest concern right now is the heavy rain and increasing flood threat.

Be sure to check back for updates throughout the morning as we track every wave of rain moving through the state.

WLBT 3 On Your Side

I'm up a little earlier than usual this morning, but don't worry; we will have you covered throughout the morning if anything spins up. Flooding remains our main concern today, with heavy rain expected across the area. Stay weather-aware and never drive through flooded roadways.

Tornado Watch issued for SELA & Coastal MS until 6am. The good news for central & SWMS is that ingredients are weak for tornadoes at this time. Can't rule out a brief spin-up, but it's unlikely outside of the watch area. Coverage continues early in the morning with Chase Franks & our next newscast is at 4:30am on WLBT3. New update posted to the Free First Alert Weather App also.