Mississippi Governor Requests Major Disaster Declaration After Winter Storm

Reeves seeks federal aid for multiple counties impacted by January weather event.

Published on Feb. 3, 2026

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Governor Tate Reeves of Mississippi has requested a Major Disaster Declaration from the federal government for multiple counties affected by a recent winter storm that hit the state from January 23 to January 27, 2026. The declaration would provide individual assistance, disaster unemployment, and public assistance to help local governments with debris removal and other recovery efforts.

Why it matters

Major Disaster Declarations unlock critical federal resources and funding to help states and local communities recover from natural disasters. This request signals the significant impact the winter storm had on Mississippi and the state's need for additional support beyond its own capabilities.

The details

According to Reeves, the state has been working closely with FEMA and other agencies to assess the damage and ensure the request meets federal thresholds. The declaration would provide individual assistance to affected residents, as well as disaster unemployment benefits. It would also include public assistance to help local governments with debris removal and other recovery work. As additional damages are identified, the governor's request may be amended to add more counties for consideration.

  • The winter storm affected Mississippi from January 23 to January 27, 2026.
  • Governor Reeves announced the request for a Major Disaster Declaration on February 3, 2026.

The players

Governor Tate Reeves

The Republican governor of Mississippi who requested the Major Disaster Declaration.

FEMA

The Federal Emergency Management Agency, which will review Mississippi's request and determine if it meets the criteria for a Major Disaster Declaration.

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What they’re saying

“The state of Mississippi has been working closely with FEMA, state agencies, and local governments on this Major Disaster Declaration request. Together, we've been assessing damage and working to ensure that my request met the required federal thresholds. My request is another step forward as we continue to help Mississippians recover from the historic winter weather storm. The state of Mississippi will continue to use every tool at its disposal to help those in need. We will not stop until the work is complete.”

— Governor Tate Reeves (WJTV)

What’s next

The federal government will review Mississippi's request and determine whether to approve the Major Disaster Declaration, which would unlock additional resources and funding to support the state's recovery efforts.

The takeaway

This request highlights the significant impact the winter storm had on Mississippi and the state's need for federal assistance to help communities and residents recover. The approval of a Major Disaster Declaration would be a critical step in providing the necessary support to get the state back on its feet.