Mississippi National Guard Expands Winter Storm Response Efforts in North Mississippi

Additional 150 service members activated to assist with storm recovery efforts

Published on Feb. 1, 2026

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The Mississippi National Guard has activated an additional 150 service members, bringing the total to 650 personnel, to conduct general support, fueling operations, and aerial logistics packaging of food, water, medical, and other needed supplies following a major winter storm that impacted parts of North Mississippi from January 23-26, 2026.

Why it matters

The winter storm, named Winter Storm Fern, brought freezing rain, sleet, snow and dangerous temperatures to the region, causing significant travel and infrastructure disruptions that could continue into next week. The Mississippi National Guard is playing a critical role in supporting emergency response and recovery efforts in the hardest hit counties of Lafayette, Tishomingo, Panola, Tippah, and Alcorn.

The details

Mississippi Guardsmen from various units are assisting the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency with medical, fueling, and warming centers and shelter operations. The MSNG-JFH State Army Aviation Office is also providing aviation assets to move supplies and personnel throughout North Mississippi, as well as conducting medical evacuations of patients to care centers outside the affected areas. Since the start of the response efforts, the MSNG has transported and dispersed over 8,500 cases of bottled water, 3,000 boxes of MREs, 8,000 gallons of bulk water, 25,415 gallons of fuel, 344 cots, and 2,726 blankets.

  • The winter storm, named Winter Storm Fern, impacted parts of Mississippi from January 23-26, 2026.
  • The Mississippi National Guard activated an additional 150 service members on February 1, 2026, bringing the total to 650 personnel.

The players

Mississippi National Guard

The military force of the U.S. state of Mississippi, responsible for providing emergency response and recovery efforts during natural disasters and other crises.

Mississippi Emergency Management Agency

The state agency responsible for coordinating emergency management and disaster response efforts in Mississippi.

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The takeaway

The Mississippi National Guard's expanded response efforts demonstrate the critical role they play in supporting local and state agencies during major weather events, ensuring that affected communities receive the necessary resources and assistance to recover and rebuild.