Jackson Free Press

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — Severe thunderstorm and tornado watches and warnings spread across Mississippi on Thursday along with a fast-moving storm with winds up to 60 miles an hour in some places.

The National Weather Service said the storm system was expected to be out of the state in most areas by mid-day leaving behind much cooler temperatures and gusty winds.

There were some early scattered reports of downed power lines and tree limbs but no major damage or injuries.

Joanne Culin, a meteorologist with Weather Service in Jackson, said some light rain may continue Thursday in some areas but much of the system was moving quickly out of the state.

"We're going to get some pretty gusty winds — 25 to 30 miles and perhaps upwards to 45 to 50 miles an hour in some places — and much colder air. Most areas reached their high for the day Thursday morning," Culin said.

Forecasters said temperatures could fall to near freezing in many areas.