Gov. Bryant Declares State of Emergency Following Flooding and Severe Storms

JACKSON, Miss. (Press Release) — Gov. Phil Bryant today declared a state of emergency in 12 Mississippi counties that have suffered impacts from flooding and severe storms that moved through the state beginning April 3. A state of emergency is an administrative tool that authorizes the use of additional state resources to aid in storm response efforts.

Chickasaw, Covington, Hinds, Holmes, Jones, Kemper, Marion, Neshoba, Newton, Noxubee, Simpson and Yazoo counties are included in the declaration. The declaration can be expanded if additional counties are impacted.

“Multiple counties in Mississippi have been impacted by these storms. High water remains in many areas and could continue to rise if we see additional rainfall. Residents should avoid floodwaters and take all necessary safety precautions,” Gov. Bryant said. “MEMA and other state agencies are working to assist the counties and residents that have been impacted, and this state of emergency declaration will allow the use of additional tools and resources as we respond to this weather event.”

The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency has activated the State Emergency Operations Center to coordinate response for the ongoing flooding, and recovery from severe weather.

The National Weather Service forecasts additional rainfall today into tonight with rivers forecast to crest later this week.

Residents should use caution and avoid floodwaters. Water that appears still on the surface may be moving swiftly with dangerous currents. Children should not play in or near floodwaters. Motorists should avoid roads covered by water and take alternate routes. Even a few inches of water may be enough to move a vehicle.

Residents are asked to report any damage to their county emergency management director. A directory of those directors can be found on the MEMA website, www.msema.org, and on MEMA’s free mobile phone app.

For the latest on road conditions, go to www.mdottraffic.com, download the free MDOT mobile phone app or dial 5-1-1.

To receive up-to-date information during this event, “Like” MEMA on Facebook at www.facebook.com/msemaorg or “Follow” @MSEMA on Twitter.