Reeves says three deaths in Tate County raise Mississippi storm toll to seven
Gov. Tate Reeves said on Facebook that three deaths have been confirmed in Tate County, bringing the statewide death toll from a severe winter storm to seven.
Reeves said 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 interstates, with particular emphasis on I-55 and I-22.
He urged residents to avoid driving on I-55 and I-22, saying such travel hinders emergency crews. Reeves said MDOT will be milling ice and continuing road treatment operations, and that assisting motorists and moving stranded commercial vehicles remain top priorities.
State utilities reported about 117,800 customers without power, down from a peak of about 180,000. MEMA has received reports of 208 homes, five businesses and seven farms damaged statewide. Reeves said 81 warming centers are open in 47 counties and that 40 counties have submitted 223 requests for assistance.
Reeves said he was briefed by the Mississippi National Guard at Camp McCain and will visit communities affected by the storm. He said he will hold a news conference at MEMA at 4 p.m. and invited the public to follow updates on his Facebook page. This is a developing story and will be updated as more details emerge.
