The death toll in Mississippi from Winter Storm Fern continues to climb, Gov. Tate Reeves said during a press conference on Friday afternoon.
Reeves confirmed deaths in Union and Alcorn counties, bringing his office’s number to 16 with previously reported deaths happening in Adams, Hinds, Jefferson, Lafayette, Leflore, Panola, Tippah, Tishomingo, and Warren counties. Reeves did not provide the identities or exact cause of death for those who died in Union and Alcorn counties.
“We continue to pray for the families in this incredibly difficult time,” Reeves said.
Reeves noted that two linemen were injured while working to restore power in Alcorn County, which still has thousands of residents and businesses without electricity. In total, the state had just over 79,000 without power as of Friday afternoon, down from a peak of 180,000-plus after the storm moved out on Sunday.
“This is a reminder of the dangerous conditions linemen are encountering while working to restore power. Our entire state is grateful for the literally thousands of them and the work they are doing,” Reeves said. “We are seeing progress. We expect to see more progress throughout the weekend, although that progress is much slower than any of us would like.”
Reeves shared that 51 of the state’s 82 counties are reporting damage. Initial assessments show 251 homes, 22 businesses, and nine farms were either damaged or destroyed. 20 public roads received major damage and 62 received minor damage. He added that “numbers are expected to fluctuate” as assessments continue.
The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, along with the National Guard and other state departments, are continuing to deliver assistance to impacted counties. FEMA announced Friday afternoon that it was sending $3.75 million in “rapid emergency funding” for generators, debris removal, and other urgent needs.
“The state of Mississippi continues to make progress responding to the storm,” Reeves said. “We still have more work to be done. I can assure you we will not stop until that work is complete.”
With ice still being reported in 21 counties, another cold front is forecast to hit Mississippi on Friday night and last throughout the weekend, prolonging the presence of ice. Reeves encouraged people in those areas not to drive this weekend, unless absolutely necessary, after major traffic jams have consistently been reported throughout the week in the northern part of the state.
“With the amount of cold weather that we are expecting tonight, tomorrow, and Sunday, we are still encouraging everyone to stay off the roads,” he said. “And if you have to drive, please continue to use caution.”
