Residents are being urged to prepare for wintery weather as temperatures are bound to keep dropping across the Magnolia State.
In partnership with the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) and the National Weather Service (NWS), the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has proclaimed Wednesday, Dec. 4 as Winter Weather Preparedness Day.
“While Mississippi is not known for snow, we experience cold and wintery precipitation. Don’t wait for a winter storm to be in the forecast to prepare,” MEMA executive director Stephen McCraney said. “All citizens should prepare today by building a disaster go-kit that can get them through at least 72 hours without power and in freezing temperatures.”
McCraney suggests disaster go-kits include non-perishable foods for family and pets, water (at least one gallon reserved for each family member per day), extra blankets, dry firewood, extra medications, first aid kit, phone charger, hygiene items, flashlights, and batteries.
Last year, Mississippi did not see any detrimental winter weather during December. However, January did present its challenges with cold and icy conditions causing 12 fatalities and 29 injuries across the state.
In addition to having go-kits prepared, the three government agencies offered the following tips on preparing your home and car for the winter:
- Store dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove.
- Insulate walls and attics; use caulk and weather-stripping around doors and windows.
- Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic.
- Winterize your house, barn, shed, or any other structure that may provide shelter for your family, neighbors, livestock, or equipment.
- Clear rain gutters, repair roof leaks, and cut away tree branches that could fall on a house or other structure during a storm.
- Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drop slightly during cold weather to avoid freezing.
- Keep fire extinguishers on hand and ensure everyone in your house knows how to use them.
- Learn how to shut off water valves in case of pipe bursting.
- Know ahead of time what you should do to help elderly or disabled friends, neighbors, or employees.
- Create a kit to store inside your car, including:
- Windshield scraper
- Jumper cables
- Blankets
- Water/snacks
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Cell phone charger
- Emergency flares or reflectors
“Now is the time to prepare for cold temperatures and potential snowy and icy conditions,” NWS Jackson warning coordination meteorologist Michael Hill said. “Stay informed, have emergency supplies like blankets and nonperishable food, and ensure your home is adequately insulated. Preparedness is key to navigating wintery weather effectively in Mississippi.”
As conditions such as snow, freezing rain, and sleet make roads slippery and significantly reduce traction by creating a layer of ice on the pavement, MDOT executive director Brad White also issued a warning to motorists who must use the roadways during the winter months.
“Without warning, winter weather and extreme cold events can strike anywhere in Mississippi and can impact Mississippi highways for multiple days,” White said. “We urge motorists to always have a plan, monitor road conditions, and follow guidance from your local weather officials to remain safe.”
More preparedness tips can be found on MEMA’s website.