Winter Storm Expected to Impact Jackson; Neighborhoods Urged to Prepare
A winter storm is expected to impact the Jackson area, according to the National Weather Service (NWS), prompting local leaders and emergency officials to urge residents to take immediate steps to prepare their homes, families and neighborhoods.
The NWS reports a wintry mix of precipitation is expected to impact much of the area, beginning as early as Friday afternoon/evening in the ArkLaMiss Delta and gradually spreading southward towards Jackson through Sunday.
In addition to the winter precipitation threat, a drastically colder airmass will move into the region, with temperatures and wind chills in the single digits and teens possible Sunday into Monday.
Ice accumulation and cold temperatures can create hazardous road conditions, widespread power outages and significant property damage, particularly from fallen trees and frozen pipes. Residents are encouraged to finalize preparations today and limit travel once conditions begin to deteriorate.
Prepare homes and protect pipes
Freezing temperatures pose one of the greatest risks to homes through burst pipes, which can lead to extensive water damage. Residents should insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces, garages and exterior walls using foam pipe covers or heat tape. Cabinet doors beneath sinks should be opened to allow warm air to circulate, and faucets may be left dripping slightly to keep water moving during extreme cold.
Outdoor hoses should be disconnected and drained. For vacant or unoccupied properties, water should be shut off at the main valve and, when possible, plumbing lines drained. Residents should also know how to shut off their water quickly in case a pipe bursts.
Homes should be winterized by sealing gaps around doors and windows, repairing roof leaks, clearing gutters and trimming tree limbs that could break under the weight of ice. Space heaters should be used with caution and kept away from flammable materials.
Click here to read more about taking precautions to prepare your home.
Power outages possible
Ice storms often result in downed power lines and extended outages. Residents should prepare for the possibility of losing electricity for several hours or longer.
Entergy Mississippi recommends charging phones and backup batteries, keeping flashlights readily available, and avoiding candles due to fire risk. Residents relying on electrically powered medical equipment should make backup plans in advance.
Downed power lines should always be assumed to be live and reported immediately. Residents should never attempt to move lines or debris themselves.
Click here to learn more about how to report and stay updated about power outages.
Emergency kits and supplies
Households are encouraged to assemble emergency kits that include:
Nonperishable food and bottled water (at least one gallon per person per day)
Prescription medications and medical supplies
Flashlights and extra batteries
Blankets, warm clothing and gloves
Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
Phone chargers and power banks
Vehicles should also be prepared with blankets, water, snacks and a flashlight in case travel becomes unavoidable.
Roads and travel
Ice accumulation can make roads, bridges and overpasses extremely dangerous. Residents should delay travel whenever possible. If travel is necessary, drivers should reduce speed, increase following distance and avoid sudden braking.
City and county officials may limit services if road conditions worsen.
Helpful numbers and resources
Residents needing assistance with food, shelter, utilities or other emergency services can dial 211, operated locally by United Way of Mississippi. The 211 helpline is available 24 hours a day and can connect callers to warming centers and emergency resources.
Due to ongoing communications challenges, the Jackson Police Department has provided alternate nonemergency numbers if calls are not answered:
601-960-0794
601-960-0914
601-960-0768
601-960-0781
601-960-0742
601-960-0925
601-624-5113
In an emergency, residents should always dial 911.
Neighborhood preparedness matters
The Jackson Association of Neighborhoods encourages neighbors to check on seniors, people with disabilities and households without reliable heat or transportation. Community coordination before and during the storm can reduce risks and save lives.
Residents are urged to monitor official weather updates and city communications as conditions develop. Taking preventive action now can help protect homes, reduce stress and keep Jackson’s neighborhoods safer during the ice storm.
