The partial government shutdown affecting federal agencies includes the National Weather Service. It was caused by President Donald Trump’s demand that Congress fund a border wall between the U.S., Mexico. When the Washington gridlock is over, National Weather Service employees will be paid for their work. It is not yet known when that will happen. Mississippi Today was told by Latrice Maxie (a meteorologist at the agency in Flowood), that “We are present today and we’ll continue working like we normally do.” Maxie stated that approximately 30 employees at the agency’s Rankin County branch are affected by the shutdown. The National Weather Service staff monitors severe weather conditions and alerts the state-funded Mississippi Emergency Management Agency of watches and warnings. The National Weather Service also provides updates to viewers via local television stations. On Thursday, strong thunderstorms will be expected throughout the state with the possibility of flash flooding and tornadoes. Gov. Phil Bryant received briefings from Mississippi Emergency Management Agency regarding the severe weather threat this week. MEMA and Bryant posted National Weather Service graphics on Twitter Wednesday morning and Thursday morning, respectively, to warn the public. Bryant tweeted Thursday morning, “Everyone should weather aware and be cautious on the roads.” During a partial government shutdown, Jan. 22 saw an EF-1 tornado hit Jones and Covington counties. This also affected National Weather Service employees. One person was injured during the storm._x000D