Mississippi Governor Provides Update on Winter Storm Response

Reeves highlights National Guard efforts, emergency aid, and ongoing challenges from ice storm

Jan. 28, 2026 at 8:23pm

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Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves provided an update on the state's response to the recent winter storm, including the deployment of the National Guard, emergency aid received from FEMA, and the ongoing challenges posed by frozen roads and power outages, particularly in northern parts of the state. Reeves emphasized the 'all of government approach' to the storm response and praised the heroic efforts of Mississippians helping their neighbors.

Why it matters

The winter storm has caused significant damage and disruption across Mississippi, with 10 fatalities and over 350 requests for aid from 40 counties. The governor's update provides crucial information on the state's emergency response efforts and the continued challenges facing residents, underscoring the importance of coordinated disaster relief during extreme weather events.

The details

According to Reeves, the Mississippi National Guard has set up its headquarters at Camp McCain in Grenada to coordinate relief efforts. The state has received 60 generators, four truckloads of water bottles, and four truckloads of MRE meals from FEMA, as well as 2,178 cots and 9,000 blankets for the 68 warming centers open across 35 counties. Reeves also visited the Tippah County Hospital and praised the heroic efforts of Mississippians helping their neighbors during the crisis.

  • On Wednesday, January 29, 2026, Governor Tate Reeves provided the update.
  • As of 2 p.m. on Wednesday, 40 counties had reached out for aid, with a total of 357 requests.

The players

Governor Tate Reeves

The current governor of Mississippi, leading the state's response to the recent winter storm.

Mississippi National Guard

The state's military force that has been deployed to assist in the emergency response efforts.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

The federal agency that has provided emergency aid and resources to support Mississippi's storm response.

Tippah County Hospital

A healthcare facility in Mississippi that the governor visited to thank the staff for their efforts during the crisis.

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What they’re saying

“A lot of really capable, competent people there who are very proud of what they are doing and they have been successful over the past 24 to 36 hours, getting supplies to the areas most in need.”

— Governor Tate Reeves

“And I can just tell you, from my personal experience, how much I appreciate the conversations that we had there and the fact that it reminds you of the heroes that we have in Mississippi. Mississippi is going over and beyond the call to help their fellow neighbors.”

— Governor Tate Reeves

What’s next

The governor stated that 51 counties and 37 municipalities have filed damage reports, and he expects those numbers to rise as power is restored in affected areas, particularly in northern Mississippi.

The takeaway

The winter storm response in Mississippi has required an 'all of government approach,' as the state deals with the unique challenges posed by ice storms, including frozen roads, downed power lines, and ongoing power outages. The governor's update highlights the critical role of the National Guard, emergency aid, and the heroic efforts of Mississippians in supporting their communities during this crisis.