JACKSON, Miss. – Mississippi continues to grapple with the aftermath of severe winter weather, as state and local officials, alongside numerous volunteer groups, work to restore essential services and provide aid to impacted communities. Tragically, the death toll has risen to 23 statewide, with two additional deaths reported in Panola County. The primary focus remains on ensuring public safety and restoring utility services.
Widespread Needs and Ongoing Relief Efforts
Forty-one counties have submitted a total of 662 requests for essential supplies, including meals, water, cots, blankets, and generators. The state is actively fulfilling these requests, having already distributed 275,832 bottles of water, 93,412 meals, 4,739 blankets, 1,990 cots, and 4,322 tarps.
Power Restoration and Warming Centers
Significant progress is being made in restoring power, with thousands of linemen from across the country assisting in the effort. While approximately 55,800 outages remain, this is a substantial decrease from a peak of around 180,000. Fifty-three generators are deployed at critical infrastructure locations, including three supporting the Burnsville water system in Tishomingo County. As power is restored, these generators are being repositioned to areas of continuing need.
With temperatures remaining below freezing, particularly in North Mississippi, 93 warming centers and shelters are open across 51 counties, providing refuge for approximately 1,220 people. Residents without heat are encouraged to utilize these facilities. A current list of locations is available here: January 2026 Winter Weather | Mississippi Emergency Management Agency
Multi-Agency Response and Volunteer Support
The Mississippi State Department of Health is operating two medical needs shelters, currently treating 24 individuals, and is also focused on refilling oxygen cylinders and providing nurse strike teams. The Mississippi Department of Transportation has reopened both northbound and southbound lanes on I-55 at exit 233 in Yalobusha County, after temporarily halting traffic to allow for power line repairs.
Multiple state agencies are coordinating relief efforts. The Mississippi National Guard is assisting with road clearing, refueling, distribution of goods, and welfare checks. The Departments of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, and Forestry Commission are also providing support in Alcorn, Tippah, and Lafayette Counties.
Numerous nonprofit and faith-based organizations are also contributing to the relief effort, including the American Red Cross, Salvation Army, Eight Days of Hope, MS Baptist Relief, Baby2Baby, God’s Pit Crew, Operation BBQ, Mercy Chefs, and World Central Kitchen. While volunteers are welcome, individuals are encouraged to coordinate their efforts through established organizations rather than self-deploying.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many counties have requested assistance?
A total of 41 counties have made requests for assistance.
How many power outages remain?
Approximately 55,800 power outages remain across the state.
Where can I find a list of open warming centers?
A current list of warming center locations is available at: January 2026 Winter Weather | Mississippi Emergency Management Agency
As recovery efforts continue, it is possible that additional needs will emerge, and the state may require further assistance from volunteers and partner organizations. The full extent of the damage and the timeline for complete restoration remain uncertain.
