PEARL, Miss. (WJTV) – Officials with the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) announced two additional winter weather-related deaths have been reported.
According to MEMA, the deaths occurred on Highway 15 just south of Houston. The Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP) is investigating the incident.
This brings the state’s total death toll to four since January 14. The first death was reported in Humphreys County, and the second was reported in Sharkey County.
More dangerous cold is expected to impact the entire state of Mississippi beginning Friday night into Saturday night, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). Low temperatures could dip lower than 15 degrees.
Mississippians are encouraged to limit their time outdoors due to the risks of hypothermia and frostbite. Continue to keep pipes protected and faucets dripping to prevent pipes from bursting.
In many parts of the state, there is black ice on surfaces which increases the risk of falls and injuries. Tips on how to lessen the risk of falls in icy conditions include:
- Walk on designated walkways that have been treated for ice
- Take shorter steps and walk slower
- Wear proper footwear
- Get rid of distractions. Put away your phone and try not to carry heavy items.
Residents who need to warm up may seek shelter at a county or city-run warming center in your area. The full list of those shelters and safe rooms is online.