Picayune mobilizes cold-weather plan, opens warming center
Picayune city officials said in a Facebook post that Public Works, police and fire departments have coordinated a cold-weather response as a significant temperature drop approaches. The National Weather Service forecasts a low risk of ice accumulation, a slight risk of severe thunderstorms late Saturday through early Sunday and rain expected to clear by midday Sunday. Temperatures are expected to fall to about 24°F Sunday night, rise to a high near 46°F Monday and drop to about 20°F Monday night.
City crews will monitor road conditions and stand by to apply sand or salt to bridges and roadways as needed to support a safe Monday morning commute, officials said.
Officials urged residents to prioritize the “four P’s”: people, pets, pipes and plants. They asked neighbors to check on the elderly, people with disabilities and anyone who may lack adequate heating and to ensure households are prepared for the sharp temperature drop before Sunday evening.
The city offered safety tips to reduce the risk of damage and injury: allow a slow drip from faucets on exterior walls and open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate; keep space heaters at least three feet away from curtains, bedding and furniture and plug them directly into a wall outlet; never use an oven, stovetop or grill to heat a home; and run generators outdoors at least 20 feet from windows and doors. Residents can sign up for email and text notifications at the city website.
Picayune Community Saferoom at 501 Laurel Street will operate on a rotating schedule to accommodate local schools. It opens Sunday at 12 p.m.; reopens Monday and Tuesday at 5 p.m. and closes daily at 6:30 a.m.; and will have a final closure Wednesday at 6:30 a.m. Guests should bring food, water, blankets, pillows and medications. Weapons are prohibited and pets are not allowed inside the facility per the Mississippi State Department of Health. Residents with pet-sheltering needs were directed to contact the Pearl River County Office of Emergency Services or the PRC SPCA. For emergencies call 911; for city issues call 311 during business hours or 601-798-7411 after hours; for shelter questions call 601-795-3058. We will provide more information as it becomes available.
