Northern Mississippi communities are still dealing with widespread power outages and water shortages following a historic ice storm that swept through the region last week. Many towns, including Gravestown and Oxford, remain without electricity and running water, leaving residents relying on emergency supplies and shelters as recovery continues.
In Gravestown, the volunteer fire department received a large generator from federal emergency teams, allowing them to operate their station and provide essential services to residents. Fire officials described the equipment as critical, particularly as local utilities warn it could take up to two weeks to fully restore power.
“This generator will help us respond to emergencies and provide a safe place for residents to warm up and charge phones,” a local fire chief said. “It’s a relief for our team and the community.”
Federal and state agencies have been distributing generators and supplies to critical facilities across the state. Subcontractors are working with the Army Corps of Engineers to install generators at hospitals, long-term care facilities, water treatment plants, and emergency service offices.
Utility officials report that ice accumulation reached more than an inch over much of the power network, causing extensive damage to power lines and trees. Some areas have experienced branches and whole trees falling on homes, blocking roads and creating hazardous conditions. Efforts to repair the system are ongoing, with crews from neighboring states assisting in clearing ice, debris, and restoring power.
In Oxford, residents report difficult conditions, including frozen pipes, low water pressure, and reliance on limited heating. Emergency shelters have been opened, and the National Guard has assisted with transporting residents and medical patients to nearby cities, including Memphis, where travel by road remains unsafe.
Local authorities have established distribution sites for meals and water, limiting supplies per household to ensure access for as many residents as possible. Officials caution that rural areas may face longer delays in restoration due to remote locations and hazardous roads.
Experts note that the storm tested the resilience of Mississippi’s power infrastructure, highlighting vulnerabilities despite recent upgrades. Officials warn that another round of cold weather is expected in the coming days, further complicating recovery efforts.
Residents are encouraged to follow local safety guidance, conserve heat, and utilize emergency shelters if needed. The recovery process is expected to continue for several weeks, as crews work to restore power, repair damage, and ensure water services are fully operational across northern Mississippi.
