Mississippi seeks major disaster declaration after winter storms

Mississippi has requested a major disaster declaration for multiple counties hit by severe winter storms that swept the state Jan. 23-27, 2026, a state official said in a Facebook post.

The request includes individual assistance, disaster unemployment and public assistance to help local governments, including debris removal, the post said. State officials said they have worked closely with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, state agencies and local governments to assess damage and ensure the request meets federal thresholds.

A major disaster declaration can unlock federal funding to help residents with housing and recovery needs and provide support for public infrastructure and emergency work, including debris removal and repairs, experts say. The state said it will continue to evaluate and validate damage reports and may amend the request to add additional counties if warranted.

State officials said they will continue to use every available tool to help those affected and that recovery work will continue until it is complete. We will provide more information as it becomes available.