For North Mississippi, a return to normal still weeks away after historic ice storm
January 29, 2026 / 11:51 PM EST / CBS News
TL;DR
- Gravestown, Mississippi, a small northern community, has been without power and running water for five days due to an unprecedented ice storm.
- FEMA has distributed 90 generators to Mississippi, with subcontractors installing them at critical locations such as fire departments, hospitals, and long-term care facilities.
- Power restoration in Gravestown is estimated to take another 7 to 15 days, making the generators crucial for immediate needs.
- Power crews from several neighboring states are assisting in Oxford, Mississippi, to repair miles of downed power lines caused by approximately an inch and a quarter of ice accumulation.
- The ice storm caused significant tree damage, leading to extensive issues with power systems and causing damage to homes.
- Residents in affected areas are experiencing hardship, with limited access to heat, hot water, and communication, leading to the establishment of meal and water distribution sites.
- The National Guard has arrived in Oxford to assist with delivering supplies and conducting medical transports via helicopter due to hazardous road conditions.