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Multiple powerful tornadoes tore through central and western Mississippi on Wednesday, unleashing widespread destruction that damaged roughly 400 homes, injured at least 17 people, and triggered an urgent statewide emergency response, according to the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency.

WIDESPREAD TORNADO DESTRUCTION ACROSS MISSISSIPPI

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, known as MEMA, confirmed that 14 tornadoes touched down across the state on Wednesday. The hardest-hit areas were Lincoln and Lamar counties, where entire neighborhoods were left reeling in the aftermath.

Officials say the damage is still being assessed, but early reports point to severe structural losses, blocked roads, and ongoing safety risks.

In Lamar County, about 275 homes were damaged and four people were injured, including one person who was hospitalized.

Lincoln County reported more than 200 homes damaged and 12 injuries, all among residents of Wash Trailer Park.

“A LOT OF DRAMA, A LOT OF STRESS”

Residents described scenes of shock and devastation as the storms tore through their communities.

Ray Warren, a seven-year resident of Wash Trailer Park, told NBC affiliate WLBT of Jackson that he was struggling to process what happened.

“A lot of drama, a lot of stress — it’s just really indescribable. It’s pretty upsetting to see all these people lose their homes.”

EMERGENCY RESPONSE MOBILIZES

Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves announced Thursday morning on Facebook that volunteer rescue group the Cajun Navy is deploying major resources to support relief efforts in Lincoln County, including a 50-person shelter pod, a 30-kilowatt generator, and 10 pallets of supplies.

Officials continue to urge residents in affected areas to stay off the roads to allow emergency crews to operate safely.

The Lamar County Sheriff’s Office reported early damage in the Industrial Park area, including downed trees and roof damage, and warned the public to avoid travel through the region.

DAMAGE SPREADS BEYOND CORE IMPACT ZONE

While Lincoln and Lamar counties bore the brunt of the storm, other areas were also affected.

Lawrence County reported about 12 damaged homes, while Franklin County recorded one injury.

MEMA emphasized that all figures remain preliminary and are expected to change as assessments continue.

NO DEATHS REPORTED BUT WIDESPREAD DAMAGE CONFIRMED

Despite the severity of the outbreak, MEMA confirmed in a Thursday afternoon news release that no fatalities have been reported.

“There are reports of hundreds of homes damaged, roads closed due to debris, and power outages. As of 9:30 this morning, there are 15,643 power outages statewide. Damage assessments will begin today and continue into Friday,’’ the release said.

Officials also issued a strong warning against unnecessary travel in impacted areas.

MEMA reminded residents not to “sightsee” in damaged zones, noting that floodwater and downed power lines “create unstable conditions.”

SCHOOLS CLOSED AND COMMUNITIES DISRUPTED

Storm damage and downed trees forced multiple school districts to close, including those in Lawrence, Franklin, and Lincoln counties, disrupting daily life for thousands of students and families.

STORM SYSTEM MOVES EAST AS FLOOD THREATS CONTINUE

Although the tornado-producing system has weakened, it continues to move eastward toward the Florida Panhandle and parts of Georgia, including the Atlanta area. A tornado watch remains in effect for those regions until about 10 a.m. ET.

Flash flooding has also been reported in parts of the South, including Montgomery, Alabama, where rainfall totals reached 4 to 6 inches.

While the immediate flood threat has eased, additional rainfall is still expected along the Mid-Atlantic coast.

Forecasters say more rain is likely through Friday, with Gulf Coast cities including Houston, Lake Charles in Louisiana, and New Orleans preparing for continued wet conditions as the system lingers.