NATCHEZ — Near record low temperatures this week could impact Thanksgiving travel in and out of the Miss-Lou.

National Weather Service meteorologist Brad Bryant said he expects lows in the 20s tonight and Wednesday night.

Although Bryant said accurate records have not been kept in Natchez over the years, he described the temperatures as exceptionally cold for this time of year.

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency is asking motorists to be aware of the potential for heavy rain, flooding and the possibility of snow today through Wednesday.

The National Weather Service is forecasting as much as six inches of rain in portions of central and east Mississippi. Rain may turn to snow this evening with light accumulation possible on the eastern side of the state.

Bryant said some snow, although likely no accumulation, is possible today and Wednesday in Natchez.

MEMA Executive Director Robert Latham said the agency wants everyone to be safe and enjoy the holiday with family and friends and to know what to expect with this weather system.

Cold rains will continue today, with two to four inches falling in most of the central part of the state. North Mississippi could see light snow or sleet today, with rain and snow likely in central and south Mississippi tonight.

In addition to the flooding hazards, bridges and overpasses could ice over as temperatures are expected to fall into the 20s late today through early Wednesday.

The sun is expected to return on Wednesday, though the temperatures will remain in the upper 30s or lower 40s.

Bryant said the Miss-Lou high Thursday night should be in the mid 40s, with a high Friday in the mid to upper 50s.