JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Officials with the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) are encouraging residents to take precautions ahead of severe weather this weekend.

The severe weather is expected Friday evening into Saturday. This will include the possibility of heavy rain, damaging winds and tornadoes.

“Friday evening into Saturday morning, and then again Saturday afternoon and evening, we could see strong winds, tornadoes, possibly even some powerful tornadoes, flash flooding and hail are also concerns. We urge Mississippians to prepare now, keep an eye on the forecast, and be ready to act when needed,” said Eric Bullard, with MEMA.

Residents are encouraged to have a disaster plan in place.

“The best thing anyone can do is have a plan. Know what to do if severe weather hits your area. If a tornado warning is issued, do you know where your safe place is? Some people head to a closet, others to a bathroom. We recommend getting to the lowest floor of your home and putting as many walls between you and the outside as possible to stay safe,” Bullard said.

MEMA encouraged residents to have a disaster kit ready to go.