Crews Race to Restore Power, Open Roads Before Next Dangerous Cold Blast

Southern states struggle to recover from crippling winter storm as another arctic blast approaches

Jan. 29, 2026 at 12:15pm

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Crews in the South are working around the clock to restore power and clear roads blocked by fallen trees and debris before another blast of dangerous cold hits the region on Friday. Over 300,000 homes and businesses remain without electricity, mostly in Mississippi and Tennessee, five days after a major winter storm dumped snow and ice across the eastern U.S. At least 80 people have died in the affected areas from Texas to New Jersey due to the extended deep freeze. Emergency dispatchers in Mississippi are receiving calls from people running out of food and medicine while stuck at home, and Tennessee troopers are conducting welfare checks on residents who haven't been heard from in days.

Why it matters

The South is not accustomed to prolonged periods of extreme cold, and the region is ill-equipped to handle the aftermath of such a crippling winter storm. The extended power outages and impassable roads are creating a life-or-death situation for many residents, especially the elderly and vulnerable populations. Restoring power and clearing roads before the next arctic blast is crucial to prevent further loss of life and suffering.

The details

Mississippi has dispatched 500 National Guard troops to clear roads, while Tennessee has nearly 1,000 linemen working to restore power to thousands of Nashville homes. Interstates 55 and 22 in northern Mississippi were closed as crews worked to remove gridlocked vehicles. In Batesville, Mississippi, residents are shivering in line outside a Walmart, waiting for a chance to buy supplies. The University of Mississippi in Oxford has canceled classes and campus activities for a second week due to the ongoing recovery efforts.

  • The National Weather Service says arctic air moving into the Southeast will cause already frigid temperatures to plunge into the teens on Friday night.
  • The extended deep freeze has lasted for five days since the initial winter storm hit the region.

The players

Tate Reeves

The governor of Mississippi who has mobilized 500 National Guard troops to clear roads and debris.

Hal Ferrell

The mayor of Batesville, Mississippi, where no one has power and warming centers are not enough to serve the city's 7,500 residents.

Brent Baker

A vice president at Nashville Electric Service, who said crews would need the weekend or longer to restore power to all customers.

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What they’re saying

“We're at a real mess and warming centers just don't exist for 7,500 people.”

— Hal Ferrell, Mayor of Batesville, Mississippi

“Crews would need the weekend, or longer, before all customers could be restored.”

— Brent Baker, Vice President, Nashville Electric Service

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.