JACKSON, Miss. — Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves has submitted a request for a Major Disaster Declaration to President Joe Biden, seeking federal assistance for eight counties impacted by severe weather from Tropical Storm Arthur on June 18-19, 2026.
The storm dumped up to 30 inches of rain over five days, with some downpours reaching three inches per hour. The heavy rainfall triggered flash flood emergencies, threatened earthen dams, and caused major flooding in several river basins. Six key basins crested and remained at flood levels for as long as a week after the storm.
Damage assessments indicate that 532 homes, 17 businesses, and five farms were affected by the storm. Reeves said the storm’s impact has left many families and communities in need of long-term recovery support. “Mississippians are resilient, but the damage caused by Tropical Storm Arthur has left many families and communities facing a long recovery,” he said.
The state is requesting individual assistance for Hancock, Harrison, Pearl River, and Stone counties. Public assistance is being sought for Covington, George, Greene, Hancock, Harrison, Pearl River, Stone, and Wayne counties. Federal and state agencies, including FEMA and MEMA, conducted damage assessments that support eligibility for public assistance. The request could be expanded if additional damages are reported.
Individual assistance includes grants for temporary housing, home repairs, and low-interest loans to cover uninsured losses. Public assistance provides grants to local governments and nonprofits for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and rebuilding public infrastructure. The final approval of federal aid depends on President Biden’s authorization. Mississippi officials continue to work with federal agencies, volunteers, faith groups, and private partners to aid recovery efforts.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
