Mississippi governor updates on winter storm damage and response efforts
JACKSON, Miss. — Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves announced Monday that the state is actively responding to severe winter weather. The storm has resulted in four deaths statewide and caused damage to homes, businesses, and farms.
Reeves said two additional fatalities were reported in Alcorn and Leflore counties, bringing the total death toll to four. The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has received reports of damage in 48 counties, including 92 homes, three businesses, and seven farms. Officials expect those numbers to rise as assessments continue.
Power outages persist, affecting approximately 143,700 residents. The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) is working to clear roads, while MEMA is distributing generators, tarps, meals, water, cots, blankets, and fuel to 37 counties. The National Guard has been activated to help transport supplies, and FEMA is delivering 11 truckloads of aid and deploying a chainsaw team to North Mississippi.
Several organizations are assisting with shelter and supplies. The American Red Cross is providing shelter support, and Pinelake Church along with Convoy of Hope is helping at warming centers. Lowe’s supplied shovels and brooms, and the Mississippi Trucking Association coordinated the movement of supplies. Citizens are encouraged to donate bottled water, nonperishable food, baby supplies, propane stoves, and paper products at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds from Jan. 27-30.
Residents in affected areas are advised to stay home, off icy roads, and seek shelter at local warming centers. As of early Monday, ice remained on roads and bridges in 37 counties. Travelers are urged to proceed only if necessary and check road conditions through MDOT’s traffic updates. Damage reports from 48 counties include affected and destroyed structures, with some fatalities and injuries reported.
Mississippians affected by the storm should file insurance claims, document damages with photos, and report losses to their county or MEMA via a self-report tool. Officials continue to assess and respond to the widespread impact of the winter storm.
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