Crews made progress overnight clearing roads and bridges as Winter Storm Fern persisted in Mississippi, according to officials. Temperatures remained near 33 degrees through the night, but forecasted freezing rain within the next six hours is expected to cause flash freezes and black ice, officials said.
Last night’s plowing and sweeping efforts aimed to prevent refreezing on roads and bridges. As of 6 a.m., temperatures have dropped below freezing and are expected to stay below until Tuesday afternoon.
The main concern now is falling trees and limbs caused by ice accumulation, creating hazardous conditions for both crews and the public. Tree cleanup has been ongoing throughout the night and will continue today, officials added.
Emergency crews are working with Tupelo Water and Light and the Tombigbee Electric Power Association to address downed powerlines caused by fallen trees. Once powerlines are safely removed from city rights of way and streets, crews plan to clear the streets to allow emergency vehicles through. Full removal of debris will occur when conditions improve.
Due to icy roadways and fallen trees, officials are advising only emergency travel at this time.
