Jackson, MS – Emergency officials across Mississippi are urging residents to begin preparing today for potential winter hazards, including occasional freezing rain that can lead to dangerous ice storms. While Mississippi rarely sees heavy snow, the National Weather Service (NWS) warns that even brief periods of freezing rain can create severe disruptions, snapping branches, damaging powerlines, and making roads hazardous across Central and Northern Mississippi.
According to NOAA, a thin glaze of ice is enough to overload weakened branches and affect major corridors such as I-20, I-55, I-59, and the Natchez Trace Parkway. Mississippi’s combination of tall pines, rural stretches, and high humidity can worsen the impact of freezing rain events. With temperatures expected to fluctuate at times this season, emergency managers say today is the best time for residents to begin winter preparations.
According to the National Weather Service, residents should start by trimming weak or damaged branches around homes, driveways, and walkways. These limbs often fail first when ice accumulates. NOAA also warns residents not to raise windshield wipers before storms, as they can freeze to windshields and break; keeping them lowered and covered is recommended.
Families are encouraged to maintain at least a week’s supply of non-perishable food, bottled water, and essential prescriptions. Ice storms can lead to prolonged outages—especially in rural counties where tree density is high. Officials also urge residents not to park vehicles under trees, where ice-weighted limbs may fall unexpectedly.
To prepare for potential outages, emergency managers recommend fully charging phones, flashlights, power banks, and other essential electronics today. Homeowners who rely on generators should safely store extra gasoline and perform a test run in advance. Stocking rock salt or ice melt can also help reduce slip hazards around porches, patios, and walkways.
“Even infrequent ice storms can cause major problems across Mississippi,” the NWS said. “Taking steps today is the best way to stay safe this winter.”
