JACKSON – Twenty-six injuries have been reported after tornadoes moved through Mississippi, Gov. Tate Reeves said in an update on storm recovery efforts.
Reeves said 22 injuries were reported in Lincoln County, three in Lamar County and one in Franklin County. The Mississippi State Department of Health is expected to meet with hospitals to help assess the status of those injured.
Power outages statewide have dropped to about 1,460, down from a peak of about 20,100, Reeves said. Utility crews continue working to restore power.
In Lincoln County, eight roads remain impassable because of debris. Damage assessments are expected to take place, with support from Hinds, Covington, Jones and Forrest counties, as well as the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency.
The American Red Cross shelter in Brookhaven had no occupants overnight, according to Reeves. Two points of distribution remain open at the Bogue Chitto Fire Department and East Lincoln Fire Department.
Feeding operations also continue at the Bogue Chitto Fire Department, East Lincoln Fire Department, Auburn Road near Calvary Road and Bogue Chitto Baptist Church.
Samaritan’s Purse has opened a volunteer intake site at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church. Volunteer orientations are being held at 7:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. daily, as needed.
A donation intake center is located at the Lincoln County School District building at 702 Saints Trail NW in Brookhaven.
In Lamar County, damage assessments are complete, and electric power associations continue working to restore power. Debris removal continues on roadways. A safe room has been moved to standby status and can reopen if needed.
The American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, Samaritan’s Purse, Mississippi Baptist Relief, Temple Baptist and others are assisting with recovery efforts.
In Franklin County, damage assessments are complete, roadways remain passable and the emergency operations center has returned to normal operations, Reeves said.
Reeves thanked volunteers, first responders, utility crews and emergency managers assisting with recovery efforts across the state.
