PEARL, Miss. (WJTV) – The recent winter weather has been blamed for a total of eight deaths in Mississippi since January 14.

The two additional deaths were reported to the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA). Officials said the incident occurred on U.S. 82 in Leflore County.

The previous deaths were reported in Chickasaw, Humphreys, Rankin, Sharkey, and Washington counties.

According to MEMA, more dangerous cold is expected to continue into Saturday night with temperatures dropping into the teens for certain areas. Frostbite and hypothermia are likely with prolonged outdoor exposure. Homeowners and renters should continue to protect pipes and let faucets drip.  

Drivers, especially in north Mississippi, are asked to use extreme caution, be aware of black ice on the roads, and drive only if necessary.

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. 

Click here to keep up with the Storm Team 12 forecast.