JACKSON — Gov. Tate Reeves has declared a state of emergency ahead of severe winter weather expected to impact Mississippi beginning Friday.
Reeves said the emergency declaration will remain in effect through at least Jan. 27 and will allow the state to mobilize resources and support response efforts in counties affected by the approaching storm.
According to the governor’s office, the state has already deployed generators, pallets of water, roof tarps, blankets, pillows and cots to counties that have requested assistance. Counties are also opening warming shelters in preparation for freezing temperatures.
State Area Coordinators are working closely with local emergency managers across Mississippi to identify gaps in local plans and coordinate additional resources ahead of the cold weather, Reeves said.
The state is also coordinating with utility providers as forecasts indicate ice accumulation could impact power lines. Ice buildup and downed trees may cause power outages, officials warned. Residents are urged to prepare in advance, while utility providers are taking steps to restore power as quickly as possible should outages occur.
Reeves said freezing temperatures, freezing rain, sleet and snow are still expected. He urged residents to monitor forecasts and avoid travel if possible, noting that while the Mississippi Department of Transportation is preparing roadways, conditions could still be hazardous.
More information about the storm and a list of warming shelters is available on the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency website.
