Flowood Live Cam
It is part of the Jackson Metropolitan Statistical Area
History
Flowood is a city located in Rankin County, Mississippi, USA. It is a suburb of the state capital, Jackson, and is situated in the central part of the state. Flowood's history dates back to the early 19th century when the area was primarily inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Choctaw people.
The region's growth and development were influenced significantly by the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century. The New Orleans and Northeastern Railroad played a crucial role in connecting Flowood to other parts of Mississippi and beyond, facilitating transportation and trade. This led to the establishment of several small settlements in the area, with Flowood being one of them.
The name "Flowood" is believed to be a portmanteau of "Pearl River" and "Byram," which are two nearby geographical features. The exact origin of the name remains somewhat uncertain, but it's thought to have been given to the area during the railroad's expansion era.
Throughout the early to mid-20th century, Flowood remained a relatively small and rural community. However, like many places in the United States, the city experienced significant growth and development following World War II. The construction of highways and improvements in transportation infrastructure further contributed to this growth.
Incorporated as a city in 1953, Flowood began to see an increase in residential and commercial development. The expansion of the nearby city of Jackson also played a role in shaping Flowood's growth, as people sought housing and businesses outside the urban core.
One of the major milestones in Flowood's history was the development of the Dogwood Festival Market in the 1980s. This shopping complex became a prominent retail center in the region, attracting visitors and boosting economic activity in Flowood.
In recent decades, Flowood has continued to grow and evolve, with an emphasis on maintaining a balance between residential, commercial, and green spaces. Today, the city is known for its suburban character, offering a mix of residential neighborhoods, retail areas, and recreational opportunities.
As with any city's history, there have been challenges and changes over the years, but Flowood has managed to maintain its status as a thriving community within the greater Jackson metropolitan area.
Top Tourist Attractions
Flowood, Mississippi, is primarily known for its commercial and residential developments rather than being a major tourist destination. However, there are a few attractions and nearby places that visitors may find interesting:
- Dogwood Festival Market: This shopping complex is one of the primary attractions in Flowood. It features various retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
- Nature Trails and Parks: While Flowood itself may not have large-scale tourist attractions, the city and its surrounding areas offer some pleasant nature trails and parks for outdoor enthusiasts. The Flowood Nature Park and Winner's Circle Park are among the popular green spaces where visitors can enjoy walking, picnicking, and spending time outdoors.
- Ross Barnett Reservoir: Just a short drive away from Flowood, the Ross Barnett Reservoir offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. The reservoir is a scenic spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
- Mississippi Petrified Forest (nearby): Located about 30 minutes from Flowood in Flora, Mississippi, the Mississippi Petrified Forest is an ancient forest turned to stone. Visitors can take guided tours and learn about the fascinating geological history of the site.
- Mississippi Children's Museum (nearby): Situated in Jackson, Mississippi, just a short drive from Flowood, the Mississippi Children's Museum offers interactive exhibits and educational experiences for families with children.
- Mississippi Museum of Natural Science (nearby): Also located in Jackson, this museum provides insight into the diverse ecosystems and wildlife found in Mississippi, making it an educational and engaging attraction for all ages.
- The Jackson Zoo (nearby): Another attraction in Jackson, the Jackson Zoo is a fun place for families to explore and observe a variety of animal species.
It's worth noting that Flowood's proximity to Jackson allows visitors to explore the capital city's cultural, historical, and entertainment offerings, which are more extensive than those available in Flowood itself.
Climate
Like much of the southeastern United States, the city's climate is characterized by hot and humid summers, mild winters, and a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year. Here are some key features of Flowood's climate:
- Summers (June to August): Summers in Flowood are hot and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 29-34°C). It is not uncommon for temperatures to soar above 90°F (32°C) during the peak of summer. Humidity levels can be high, making the heat feel more intense. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, contributing to the region's high annual rainfall.
- Fall (September to November): Fall in Flowood is generally mild and pleasant. Temperatures gradually cool down, with highs ranging from the upper 70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (around 25-30°C) in September, and dropping to the upper 60s and 70s (around 20-27°C) by November. Fall foliage is not as prominent as in some northern regions, but some color changes can be seen in the trees.
- Winters (December to February): Winters in Flowood are relatively mild compared to many other parts of the United States. High temperatures during winter typically range from the upper 50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 13-18°C), and overnight lows rarely drop below freezing. Snowfall is infrequent and minimal, though occasional light snow or sleet may occur during the coldest months.
- Spring (March to May): Spring brings mild and pleasant weather to Flowood. Temperatures gradually warm up, with highs in the 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (around 20-28°C) in March and reaching the mid to upper 80s (around 29-31°C) by May. Spring is also a time of increased rainfall and the possibility of severe thunderstorms.
- Rainfall: Flowood receives a substantial amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months typically occurring in the spring and fall. The annual precipitation is around 55 to 60 inches (140 to 150 cm), making umbrellas and rain gear essential items to have on hand.
Overall, Flowood's climate is favorable for those who enjoy mild winters and warm summers, though the high humidity levels during the summer months can be challenging for some. Visitors and residents alike should be prepared for the possibility of frequent rain and thunderstorms, especially during the wetter seasons.
Geography
It is situated within the Jackson metropolitan area, approximately 5 miles east of downtown Jackson, the state capital. Here are some key aspects of Flowood's geography:
- Location: Flowood is positioned at approximately 32.3182° N latitude and 90.1498° W longitude.
- Topography: The city's topography is relatively flat, characteristic of the broader Mississippi Delta region. Flowood's elevation above sea level is generally low, ranging from about 300 to 400 feet (around 91 to 122 meters).
- Water Bodies: Flowood is situated near the Ross Barnett Reservoir, which lies just north of the city. The reservoir is a significant recreational area and a popular spot for fishing, boating, and other water-based activities.
- Pearl River: The Pearl River flows just west of Flowood and serves as the natural boundary between Rankin County (where Flowood is located) and Hinds County (where Jackson, the state capital, is located).
- Green Spaces: While Flowood is known for its commercial and residential developments, there are also some green spaces within the city, including parks and nature areas. Notable examples include Flowood Nature Park and Winner's Circle Park.
- Access to Transportation: Flowood benefits from its strategic location, as it is well-connected to major transportation routes. The city is intersected by U.S. Route 80 (also known as the Old Spanish Trail) and is in proximity to Interstate 20, which runs east-west through central Mississippi.
- Proximity to Jackson: Flowood's location near Jackson, the capital city of Mississippi, allows residents and visitors easy access to the cultural, educational, and economic opportunities that the larger urban center offers.
Overall, Flowood's geography is characterized by its central Mississippi location, flat terrain, and access to water bodies like the Ross Barnett Reservoir and the Pearl River. Its proximity to Jackson and its well-connected transportation infrastructure contribute to its status as a growing and dynamic suburban community.