Claims filed from damages caused by Winter Storm Fern have exceeded $107 million, the Mississippi Insurance Department announced Thursday. Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney said the number is expected to increase as more reports are received.
The total includes over 12,000 claims, with more than 10,000 related to residential property. The department reported that 55% of these claims have been closed, resulting in more than $60 million in payments.
At the storm’s peak, power outages affected more than 180,000 residents. However, the actual number is likely higher, as outages from city-run utilities, such as in Holly Springs, were not included, according to Northern District Public Service Commissioner Chris Brown.
State emergency officials confirmed that at least 30 people have died due to the storm. Early estimates suggest total damages to roads and government buildings could be at least $400 million, based on earlier assessments by state senators.
The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency announced on Feb. 18 that 18 counties are eligible for federal grants to support debris removal and public facility repairs. The state is awaiting federal approval for individual assistance to help residents with direct payments.
Legislation is underway to aid recovery efforts, including a bill that would establish a disaster recovery loan program, which has passed the Senate and is under review by House committees. Another proposal to lend money to utilities affected by the storm passed the House on Wednesday. Lawmakers are also considering a measure to allocate $20 million to the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency for disaster response.
The department advised residents needing assistance to contact its consumer services division at 1-800-562-2957 or 601-359-2453, or email consumer@mid.ms.gov. It also provided tips for filing insurance claims, such as gathering policy information, documenting damages, and maintaining records of communications with insurers and repair providers.
Residents are encouraged to photograph or video damage, inventory lost items, and refrain from making permanent repairs until claims are settled. Patience and thorough documentation can help expedite the claims process.
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
