JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – On Friday, May 10, Jackson Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba declared a State of Emergency after a severe storm system caused widespread damage.

The Jackson area experienced excessive rain and wind speeds between 60 to 70 miles per hour, according to the National Weather Service (NWS). 

The severe weather caused widespread power outages, including to the O.B. Curtis Water Treatment Plant, which resulted in low water pressure throughout the city and a boil-water alert for all surface water customers. Power at the plant was restored around 7:00 a.m.

According to the mayor, the State of Emergency will be reviewed every seven days until the local emergency is no longer in effect. The mayor also ordered that all agencies and departments of the City of Jackson shall render all possible assistance and implement emergency responsibilities and protocols.