Mississippi Ice Storm Leaves Tens of Thousands Without Power for Over a Week as Rural Counties Struggle to Recover
MISSISSIPPI — Tens of thousands of residents across north and central Mississippi remain without electricity more than eight days after a crippling ice storm, raising growing concerns about safety, heating access, and the well-being of elderly and rural communities as cold temperatures continue into February.
According to on-the-ground reports, power outages remain widespread across Grenada County and several surrounding counties, with some areas still lacking not only electricity but also running water. The prolonged outage follows a severe ice storm that struck the region on January 25, causing extensive damage to power lines, trees, and infrastructure.
Large Portions of North Mississippi Still in the Dark
As of this week, roughly 25 percent of Grenada County remains without power, while neighboring counties are facing even more severe conditions. Reports indicate that between 35 and 70 percent of customers in Humphreys, Leflore, Tallahatchie, Yalobusha, Panola, Lafayette, Benton, and Tippah counties are still without electricity.
Many of these counties are largely rural, making repairs slower and access to emergency resources more limited. Utility crews continue restoration efforts, but icy damage and widespread infrastructure failures have significantly delayed progress.
Hotel Without Power or Water Highlights Severity
One firsthand report came from Grenada, where a broadcast was conducted from a Hampton Inn that remains without both power and water, despite the calendar turning to February. The situation highlights how deeply the storm has impacted even essential lodging and emergency shelter options in the region.
Residents in affected areas have described living for days in freezing conditions, often relying on limited supplies, alternative heating sources, or help from neighbors.
Seniors and Vulnerable Residents at Increasing Risk
Emergency officials and community members are expressing growing concern for elderly residents, many of whom have now spent more than a week without heat, warm food, or reliable water access. With cold temperatures continuing, the risk of hypothermia and excess mortality increases — particularly among seniors and those with medical conditions.
Local advocates are urging families and neighbors to check regularly on elderly residents and those living alone, especially in rural areas where emergency services may be slower to respond.
Counties Impacted by Prolonged Power Outages
Areas affected by the ongoing outages include:
- Grenada County
- Humphreys County
- Leflore County
- Tallahatchie County
- Yalobusha County
- Panola County
- Lafayette County
- Benton County
- Tippah County
Many of these regions experienced heavy ice accumulation that downed trees and power lines across large geographic areas.
Community Urged to Stay Alert and Support One Another
As restoration efforts continue, residents are being reminded to use extreme caution with alternative heating sources, avoid unsafe generators indoors, and remain in contact with local emergency officials when possible.
Community leaders stress that checking on neighbors, especially seniors, could be lifesaving as Mississippi continues to recover from one of its most disruptive winter storms in years.
WaldronNews.com will continue monitoring recovery efforts and provide updates as power restoration progresses across Mississippi.
If you or someone you know is still without power or heat, local emergency services and warming shelters may be available. Stay safe and look out for one another.