State officials declared a state of emergency Thursday after Tropical Storm Arthur brought continuous heavy rainfall, strong winds and widespread flooding across parts of Mississippi, officials said.
The storms have damaged homes, businesses and public property and threatened the safety of residents, state officials said. At least 10 counties have been affected, and the weather has impaired roadways, energy infrastructure and important natural resources, the statement said.
Officials said additional heavy rainfall is forecast for areas already affected by the storm. The declaration is intended to allow state authorities to mobilize assets and better support response efforts in counties impacted or potentially impacted by the storm, the statement said.
The state of emergency will remain in effect until officials determine the threat to public safety has ended. Authorities urged residents to stay weather aware and follow safety guidance, the statement said.
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
