Two deaths have been reported in Panola County, bringing the statewide total to 23, the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency said. Utility crews continue restoring power across the state, with about 55,800 outages remaining down from a peak of roughly 180,000.
The agency said 53 generators are installed at critical infrastructure sites, and three have been sent to the Burnsville water system in Tishomingo County. As electricity is restored to some areas, crews are relocating generators to other sites. Temperatures remain below freezing across much of the state, especially in North Mississippi.
Ninety-three warming centers and shelters are open in 51 counties and are serving about 1,220 people, MSEMA said. For the latest list of locations, the agency directs residents to its website at https://www.msema.org/get-assistance/disaster-resources/disasters/january-2026-winter-weather.
State officials said 41 counties have submitted 662 requests for assistance and the state has deployed requested personnel and resources. So far, authorities have distributed 275,832 bottles of water, 93,412 meals, 4,739 blankets, 1,990 cots and 4,322 tarps. The Mississippi State Department of Health is operating two medical needs shelters treating 24 people, refilling oxygen cylinders and deploying nurse strike teams.
The Mississippi Department of Transportation said northbound and southbound lanes on I-55 at exit 233/Pope Road in Yalobusha County have reopened after traffic was stopped in 15-minute intervals to allow utility crews to repair power lines. The Mississippi National Guard, Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks, and the Mississippi Forestry Commission are assisting with road clearances, welfare checks, refueling missions and debris removal.
Nonprofit and faith-based organizations are providing food, shelter and cleanup assistance. The American Red Cross and Salvation Army are running shelters, and multiple relief groups are feeding residents and helping with tree and roof work. Officials urged Mississippians who can donate or need help to visit the MSEMA website for resources. This is a developing story and will be updated as more details emerge.
