Woman killed after SUV swept away by flash flood in Petal, Mississippi
A woman was killed after her SUV was swept away by floodwaters in Petal, Mississippi, as severe storms triggered widespread flooding across Forrest and Lamar counties on May 25, 2026. Up to 152 mm (6 inches) of rain fell over parts of southern Mississippi, with floodwaters rising up to 3.7 m (12 feet) in Petal at the storm’s peak.
Charles Luther Road in Petal damaged after flooding in Forrest County, Mississippi on May 25, 2026. Credit: Forrest County Board of Supervisors President Terri Bell
Severe storms brought heavy rainfall across the southern U.S., triggering widespread flooding from May 25 to 26 that claimed one life in Forrest County, Mississippi.
Officials said nearly 152 mm (6 inches) of rain fell in a short period of time, causing rapid flooding across parts of Forrest and Lamar counties.
The fatality involved a woman whose SUV was swept away by floodwaters near a Walmart in Petal at around 15:30 LT on May 25.
Petal Fire Chief Marion Sims reported that the vehicle was swept into a culvert in the Parking area and emerged from the other end. The vehicle was recovered a few hours after the incident as the flooding subsided.
Reports indicate that bystanders in the area attempted to rescue the woman; however, the vehicle had flipped over and become submerged, preventing rescue.
Petal Mayor Tony Ducker said floodwaters reached an estimated 3.7 m (12 feet) at their highest point before beginning to recede.
“Some days make you question a lot of things. I’m sure most of you have heard about the tragedy in Petal earlier today. We will have more information tomorrow, but for now, a family is getting news no one ever wants to receive about a loved one that’s not coming home. Prayers for them tonight! Hug your loved ones — you just never know,” Ducker said.
“The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MSEMA) is in contact with local emergency managers and assisting in the response. An area coordinator has been deployed, and additional resources will be deployed as requested,” Governor Tate Reeves said.
According to Forrest County Board of Supervisors President Terri Bell, at least 30 roads were closed due to flooding in Hattiesburg, Petal, and Forrest County. One roadway, Charles Luther Road in Petal, was washed out and damaged due to the ground’s saturation.
References:
1 Woman killed after SUV swept away in South Mississippi flash flooding – WAPT – May 26, 2026
I am an Assistant Editor and Severe Weather & Science Journalist at The Watchers, specializing in real-time severe weather coverage, geophysical event reporting, and research-driven scientific analysis. You can reach me at rishav(at)watchers(.)news.
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