Image: from Governor Tate Reeves X@tatereeves
By Open Chronicle News Desk
JACKSON, MS — Governor Tate Reeves officially declared a state of emergency for Mississippi on Thursday, as the state braces for a powerful Arctic blast and a severe winter storm projected to hit much of the Deep South. The executive order allows for the rapid mobilization of state resources, including the National Guard, to assist local communities with emergency response and recovery efforts.
Meteorologists are warning that the storm system could bring a dangerous combination of freezing rain, sleet, and sub-zero wind chills to a region that rarely experiences prolonged extreme winter weather. The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has signaled that the storm has “catastrophic potential,” particularly regarding the state’s power grid and water infrastructure.
“This is not a storm to take lightly. We are taking every precaution to ensure that our citizens are protected and that our response teams are ready to move at a moment’s notice,” Governor Reeves stated during a press briefing. “The safety of Mississippians is our top priority, and this declaration ensures we have the tools necessary to handle what is coming.”
I want to provide an update on the severe winter weather that is expected to impact Mississippi starting Friday.
First, I have declared a State of Emergency in advance of the storm. The State of Emergency will be in effect through at least January 27. Doing so will allow us to… pic.twitter.com/xWtReJfjc4
— Governor Tate Reeves (@tatereeves) January 22, 2026
State officials have issued a series of urgent directives:
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Infrastructure Protection: Residents are urged to wrap exposed pipes and leave faucets dripping to prevent bursts, a major issue during the 2021 freeze.
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Travel Safety: The Department of Transportation is pre-treating major bridges and overpasses, though the Governor cautioned that many secondary roads may become impassable due to ice.
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Power Grid: Utility companies have been placed on high alert, and “warming centers” are being established in counties across the state for those without reliable heating.
Mississippi is expecting severe winter weather conditions beginning on Friday and lasting throughout the weekend. This includes freezing temperatures, freezing rain, sleet and snow.
My office is coordinating with other state agencies, including @MSEMA, @MissDPS and… pic.twitter.com/DnA7P6B8Ax
— Governor Tate Reeves (@tatereeves) January 21, 2026
The timing of the storm is particularly concerning for agricultural interests and the poultry industry, which are vital to the state’s economy. Farmers have been advised to secure livestock and protect crops from the incoming frost.
As the Arctic air mass moves south, the state of emergency will remain in effect until further notice. Residents are encouraged to monitor local news for updates and to have emergency kits prepared, including at least three days’ worth of food, water, and essential medicines.