Three people have died in Tate County amid a severe winter storm, bringing the statewide death toll to seven, according to officials. Emergency crews, including local and state law enforcement, the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT), and the Mississippi National Guard, are working to clear major highways and assist stranded motorists.
Authorities are prioritizing the clearance of Interstate 55 and I-22. MDOT plans to mill ice and continue treating roads today. Officials urge drivers to avoid traveling on these interstates to prevent worsening conditions and to allow emergency crews to do their jobs effectively.
Power outages have decreased from about 180,000 to roughly 117,800, thanks to utility crews working tirelessly to restore electricity. MEMA reports damage to 208 homes, five businesses, and seven farms across the state. Additionally, 81 warming centers are open in 47 counties, and 40 counties have submitted 223 requests for assistance.
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves visited storm-affected communities today after a briefing from the Mississippi National Guard at Camp McCain. Reeves praised the Guard’s efforts and thanked them for their service. He is scheduled to hold a news conference at MEMA headquarters at 4 p.m., which will be streamed on his Facebook page.
