If you’re planning a trip to Simpson County, you’ve probably heard the rumors about Mississippi weather. People talk like it’s a permanent steam room or a constant target for every storm coming out of the Gulf. Honestly, the reality of weather in Magee MS is a lot more nuanced than just "hot and humid." It’s a place where you can experience a 30-degree temperature swing in twenty-four hours and where the locals know that a "sunny day" can turn into a "light rain" evening before you can even get the grill started.
Right now, as of January 17, 2026, Magee is sitting at 51°F under cloudy skies. It’s nighttime, the humidity is a thick 93%, and there’s a light northwest wind at 7 mph. Looking at the immediate forecast, today is expected to stay mostly cloudy with a high of 49°F and a low of 29°F. If you're out late, keep an eye out for a 10% chance of snow—yes, snow—overnight. Tomorrow, Sunday, January 18, clears up beautifully with nothing but sun and a high of 42°F. It's a crisp, classic Mississippi winter weekend.
🔗 Read more: Harry Potter Ride Universal Studios LA: Why Forbidden Journey Still Rules the Park
The Humid Subtropical Reality
Magee officially falls into the humid subtropical climate category. Basically, that means we get a lot of rain—about 56.9 inches annually—and temperatures that like to stay on the warmer side of the scale. The annual mean temperature is roughly 65.8°F, but that average hides the wild extremes.
July and August are the heavy hitters. You’re looking at average highs of 90°F to 91°F, but the "feels like" temperature is the real story. Because the humidity often hovers near 77%, the air feels heavy enough to wear. It’s the kind of weather where you move from one air-conditioned building to another and consider a walk to the mailbox a major workout. If you aren't a fan of the "miserable" heat, steer clear of the mid-summer months.
✨ Don't miss: Lents Park Portland OR: What Most People Get Wrong
Winter, on the other hand, is surprisingly short but punchy. The cool season only lasts about 2.8 months, from late November to late February. January is usually the coldest, with average lows of 38°F and highs of 58°F. But as we're seeing this week, it’s not unusual to see those lows dip into the 20s.
Why "Best Time to Visit" is Subjective
Most travel guides will tell you that the best time to experience the weather in Magee MS is during the shoulder seasons. April and October are the gold standard. In April, the wildflowers are blooming, the humidity hasn't quite ramped up yet, and the temperatures sit comfortably in the mid-70s.
October is arguably even better. The hurricane season is winding down, the air is drier, and the sky is at its clearest—statistically, it’s clear or mostly clear about 67% of the time. It’s perfect for the local festivals or just exploring the quiet charm of the town.
But if you’re a sun-worshipper who loves long days and doesn't mind a little sweat, the late spring months of May and early June offer a different kind of energy. Everything is green, the pools are open, and the town feels alive. Just be prepared for the afternoon thunderstorms that are almost a daily ritual during the warmer months.
When to Watch Out: Severe Weather Hazards
Living in the deep south means respecting the atmosphere. Severe weather isn't just a possibility here; it’s a part of life.
- Tornado Season: Mississippi actually has two of them. The primary one hits in March, April, and May. The secondary season pops up in November and December. Tornadoes in this region can happen at any time of day or night, which makes having a reliable weather app or a NOAA Weather Radio essential.
- Hurricane Season: From June 1 to November 30, Magee keeps one eye on the Gulf. While we’re inland, hurricanes like Ida and the record-breaking 2020 season have shown that inland flooding and high winds are very real threats.
- Flash Flooding: Because Magee is somewhat urbanized, heavy rain can overwhelm drainage systems quickly. The rule is simple: Turn around, don't drown. Most flood deaths happen at night when people underestimate the depth of water on the road.
Making the Most of the Conditions
If you're visiting this week, you're in for a cold but sunny stretch after today's clouds move out. Monday, January 19, and Tuesday, January 20, will both be sunny or partly sunny with highs in the low 50s. It's ideal weather for a brisk walk or photography, as the winter light in Mississippi has a unique, soft quality.
To stay safe and comfortable, always check the local NWS Jackson briefings. If you're traveling during the summer, hydrate way more than you think you need to. During the winter, dress in layers. The temperature might be 30°F at 7:00 AM and 60°F by 2:00 PM.
Actionable Insights for Navigating Magee Weather:
- Download the MEMA App: It’s free and gives you direct alerts from the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency.
- Plan for "The Dip": In January, always keep an ice scraper in your car. Even if it was 65°F yesterday, a freeze can happen overnight.
- Summer Strategy: If you must visit in July, plan all outdoor activities for before 10:00 AM or after 6:00 PM to avoid the worst of the heat and UV index.
- Watch the Sky: During spring, if the air feels "unusually" still and humid, keep a close ear on the weather radio; those are the conditions where thunderstorms can turn severe quickly.