Mississippi activates National Guard to aid storm recovery efforts

Mississippi Governor signed Executive Order 1593 to activate the Mississippi National Guard to assist with the state’s response and recovery efforts following severe winter weather. About 500 Guardsmen are being deployed initially, with the possibility of additional personnel as needed, according to state officials.

Damage assessments indicate 14 residential structures with major damage, three with minor damage, and one business with major damage. Additionally, 20 public roads have sustained major damage, and 33 counties have submitted requests for assistance. The total number of requests currently stands at 136, officials said.

The state is distributing essential supplies, including oxygen cylinders, generators, bottled water, MREs, cots, blankets, and tarps. About 147,000 residents remain without power, with recovery efforts hampered by weather and road conditions. Mississippi has secured 30 additional generators from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, to be deployed to healthcare facilities, nursing homes, warming centers, and rural water systems.

Utility companies report ongoing challenges in restoring power, especially in northern and rural areas, where conditions remain dangerous. Crews are working around the clock, but officials warn it could take some time for power to be fully restored. The Mississippi Department of Transportation continues to treat highways, but residents are urged to stay off the roads until conditions improve, as ice and snow remain a hazard.

Currently, 61 warming centers are open across 30 counties. For the latest information on warming centers, residents are encouraged to visit the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency’s website. Officials advise residents to check on family, friends, and neighbors, and to keep Mississippi in their prayers during the ongoing recovery process.

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