JACKSON, Miss. — Mississippi continues to respond to a severe winter storm, with authorities reporting 14 deaths statewide. Governor Tate Reeves said the state is working with local, federal, and private partners to manage the crisis.
Four additional fatalities were reported Tuesday: one each in Lafayette and Panola counties, and two in Tippah County, according to the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA). The agency also reports damage to homes, businesses, farms, and infrastructure. Damage assessments indicate 223 homes, 10 businesses, and seven farms affected across the state.
Road conditions remain hazardous, with 20 public roads suffering major damage, 50 with minor damage, and 12 destroyed. Two bridges have minor damage. The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) continues clearing problem areas on several highways, including I-55, I-22, and US 61. Officials advise motorists to monitor updates from MDOT and the Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Emergency services remain active, with MEMA deploying personnel and resources to impacted counties. The Mississippi State Department of Health has ambulances and medical staff in Yalobusha and Tippah counties and is establishing a Medical Needs Shelter in Lafayette County. The Department of Public Safety is adding Highway Patrol officers to assist with ongoing operations.
The Mississippi National Guard is delivering supplies via helicopters and trucks. More than 70,000 pounds of supplies, including meals, water, and blankets, have been distributed. The Guard plans to mobilize an additional 150 soldiers to support efforts, which include road clearing and transporting dialysis patients. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has installed 45 generators at critical facilities, including warming centers, water systems, and healthcare sites.
FEMA is providing generators, water, meals, cots, blankets, tarps, and oxygen cylinders. The agency also plans to deploy Starlink satellites and devices to assist communication efforts. Power outages have decreased from about 180,000 to roughly 98,850, as utility crews work to restore service.
Volunteer organizations, including Mississippi Baptist Disaster Relief, 8 Days of Hope, Samaritan’s Purse, and the Cajun Navy, are assisting communities. Businesses are coordinating with MEMA’s Business Emergency Operations Center to aid recovery, with some providing mobile laundry and shower trailers.
Mississippi officials urge residents to avoid self-deploying and instead join verified volunteer organizations. The National Weather Service forecasts more cold weather this weekend, prompting officials to encourage residents to check on neighbors and loved ones during the ongoing emergency.
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
