NATCHEZ — The National Weather Service is closely monitoring a severe weather system that is moving into the state this afternoon, but meteorologists don’t foresee and impact on Mississippi River levels.

NWS Meteorologist Alan Campbell said, based on current data, he expects the worst of the storms to be to the north of Natchez.

The Miss-Lou could see up to half an inch of rain, 60-mph winds and some hail though. Campbell also would not rule out the chance of a tornado.

In addition, NWS hydrologists are watching the impact of rains in the Arkansas and Ohio river valleys. Senior Hydrologist Marty Pope said those rains won’t raise the level of the river in Natchez, but they will slow its fall over time.

The additional rain means the river at Natchez likely won’t fall below flood stage until June 25, Pope said.

The river currently stands at 60.62, down from its crest of 61.9 Thursday. Pope said the water level should drop close to two feet in the next five days before slowing again due to the rainfall to the north.