Jackson, MS – Residents across Mississippi experienced an unusually cold start to the week as record low high temperatures were reported Monday, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Jackson. The early-season chill brought conditions more typical of winter than mid-November.
Record Cold Highs Across the State
The National Weather Service confirmed that Hattiesburg recorded a high temperature of just 52°F at Bobby Chain Airport on November 10, breaking its previous record “cool high” of 53°F set in 2018.
In Greenwood, the temperature reached only 44°F, tying a record originally set in 1950. These readings marked one of the coldest daytime highs ever observed in the region this early in the season.
Meteorologists noted that daytime temperatures across central and southern Mississippi remained well below normal, with many communities failing to climb out of the 40s and low 50s.
“This type of air mass is something we’d expect closer to mid-December, not early November,” NWS meteorologist Cody Lindsey explained. “It’s definitely one of the more impressive early-season cold spells we’ve seen in years.”
Why It Happened: The Cold Front Behind the Chill
Forecasters attributed the sudden temperature drop to a strong cold front that swept across the state over the weekend. The front ushered in a mass of Arctic air from the north, creating crisp, blustery conditions and widespread frost in some areas.
The cold front’s intensity was reinforced by clear skies and calm winds overnight, allowing temperatures to plummet even further than forecast.
In parts of northern Mississippi, wind chills dipped into the upper 30s, creating a sharp contrast to the mild 70-degree highs recorded just days earlier.
Forecast: Gradual Warm-Up Ahead
Meteorologists expect a slow warming trend to take hold by midweek, with daytime highs climbing back into the 60s and low 70s. However, another cold surge could arrive by the weekend, bringing another round of below-normal temperatures.
“Residents should enjoy the midweek sunshine but keep jackets handy,” forecasters said. “A second cold front looks possible around Saturday, and it could knock temperatures back down again.”
Despite the upcoming rebound, overnight lows are still forecast to dip into the 30s and 40s across much of the state, prompting forecasters to encourage residents to protect plants, pets, and sensitive outdoor equipment.
Public Advisory and Safety Tips
The National Weather Service urged residents to monitor local forecasts and prepare for chilly mornings and frosty conditions. With many homes still transitioning from fall to winter, officials advised checking heating systems and ensuring space heaters are used safely.
“Early cold snaps like this one can catch people off guard,” said NWS Jackson in a social media post. “Make sure to bring pets indoors and be mindful of space heater safety if you’re using one overnight.”
Farmers and gardeners in southern counties were also encouraged to take precautions for early frost that could impact crops or sensitive vegetation.
Historical Context: Rare November Chill for Mississippi
While Mississippi occasionally sees strong cold fronts in November, forecasters said this particular system’s strength was notable for how widespread the temperature drop was. Records dating back to the mid-20th century show only a handful of comparable events.
In 1950, for instance, Greenwood’s record low high of 44°F set a benchmark that stood for over seven decades—until now.
Meteorologists say the 2025 event will likely be remembered as one of the earliest significant cold waves to strike the state in recent years.
Conclusion
The record-breaking cold provided Mississippi with a preview of the upcoming winter season, as residents bundled up far earlier than usual. With another cold front on the horizon, weather experts are reminding the public to stay alert and prepared for more unseasonable dips in temperature.
How are you handling the early cold in your area? Share your experience in the comments below.
