Weather - Current & Emergencies

Are you as smart as a caveman?

In the 21st century, nature is as unforgiving as it was 10,000 years ago.

Most of the Natchez Trace Parkway runs through natural areas that demand attention to all of the elements. It is easy to enjoy a fun and safe trip, but if mother nature is having a bad day, you need to be prepared. Be sure to scroll through the whole page to find out what to do in case of severe weather.

The best way to keep up with weather conditions on the Parkway is to listen to a weather radio, or a local radio, or TV station. You can also track a storm on your cell phone. No matter how you track the weather, the important thing is that you do.

To report an emergency, call 911 and tell them you are on the Natchez Trace Parkway. Knowing the closest milepost is extremely helpful when reporting emergencies.
Jump to Emergency Weather information here.

Go to Meriwether Lewis Campground Current and Yearly Averages here.
Go to Jeff Busby Campground Current and Yearly Averages here.
Go to Rocky Springs Campground Current and Yearly Averages here.

 

Current Weather Along the Parkway

 

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Emergency Weather Information for Planning

 
 
Dark clouds above the Natchez Trace Parkway road way
Storm clouds along the parkway

NPS/© Marc Muench

Wind, rain and thunderstorm safety:

Driving conditions on the Parkway can be dangerous during storms. Trees can become top heavy and fall, especially after a heavy rain. Wet roads increase stopping distances.

If you are outside and hear thunder, go inside a building. Nowhere outdoors is safe during a thunderstorm. Learn more about what to do when you are caught outside in a thunderstorm.


 
A large tree that was blown over by a tornado and several trees that have been stripped of branches and leaves.
Damage from a tornado in April 2011.

NPS Photo/E Davie

Tornado Safety:

If the weather is stormy, keep tuned to a weather station. As you travel, keep track of which mile post you are near. It is a good idea to track which county you are in. Weather reporters give conditions according to county. Milepost numbers start at 0 in the south near Natchez, and increase as you travel northward toward Tennessee. Click here for a list of shelters.

This podcast will teach you about tornado safety when you are in a car.

 
Maintenance workers are getting ready to clear a fallen tree off of a snow covered road.
Maintenance workers preparing to remove a fallen tree from the roadway.

NPS Photo

Cold, Ice and Snow Safety:

Snow and ice can make conditions on the Parkway unsafe. During this kind of weather, it is best to choose an alternative route. Snow and ice often linger in the shade and on curves, even when sunbathed sections of the road are clear. During inclement weather, we recommend that you exit the Parkway to travel. Road closures may be in effect. Traveling around or moving barricades is a violation of federal regulations and will result in a mandatory apperance in Federal Court.


Hypothermia can occur in cold weather or cold water. If you are outdoors and the weather turns cold you. Learn more about how to avoid hypothermia.
 
Three children and a small black dog are walking on a shaded trail.
In is important to keep both you and your pets from overheating.

NPS/Bob Boisseau

Summer Heat Safety:

During the summer, you can avoid hot weather if you stay in your car but that is no fun. In the hot summer heat, remember to wear sunscreen and insect repelent, carry plenty of water, and seek shade when ever you can. Plan shorter walks.

Learn more about heat illnesses and fluid balance.
 
 
 

Last updated: May 26, 2024

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

2680 Natchez Trace Parkway
Tupelo, MS 38804

Phone:

800 305-7417
The Parkway Visitor Center near Tupelo, MS, is open 9am-4:30pm seven days a week. The visitor center is closed Thanksgiving, December 25th and January 1st.

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