Mississippi reports deadly winter storm amid ongoing recovery efforts
A fatality has been reported in Leflore County, bringing the statewide death toll from a severe winter storm to four, according to officials. Authorities continue damage assessments across the state, with the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) reporting damage to 92 homes, three businesses, and seven farms. The agency expects these numbers to rise as assessments proceed.
Power outages remain a significant concern, with approximately 143,700 outages reported statewide. Crews from utility companies and state agencies are working to restore electricity. The Mississippi Department of Transportation is actively clearing roads, and MEMA is fulfilling requests for generators, tarps, military rations, bottled water, cots, blankets, and fuel from 37 counties.
Federal assistance is arriving in Mississippi, with FEMA delivering 11 truckloads of supplies and deploying a 90-person chainsaw team to northern parts of the state. The American Red Cross is providing shelter support, while Pinelake Church and Convoy of Hope are assisting with supplies at warming centers. Lowe’s has supplied shovels and brooms, and the Mississippi Trucking Association has helped identify trucking resources for moving supplies.
Community members and businesses are encouraged to contribute. The Mississippi Department of Agriculture and Commerce is collecting bottled water, nonperishable food, can openers, baby supplies, propane stoves, and basic necessities at the Old Armory at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds from January 27 to 30, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. MEMA is coordinating efforts to ensure aid reaches those in need.
Officials advise residents to stay off roads and stay warm. Many counties still report icy conditions on roads and bridges, with travel remaining dangerous. A list of warming centers is available on MEMA’s website. For current road conditions, visit mdottraffic.com. The agency also announced plans for a press conference at 4 p.m. to provide further updates, which will be streamed on Facebook.
Mississippi continues to respond with resilience, demonstrating its reputation as the most charitable state in America. Authorities thank residents for their ongoing support and encourage everyone to help neighbors during recovery efforts.
Source: Original Article
