DeSoto County braces for more icy conditions

SOUTHAVEN, Miss. — DeSoto County remains in a deep freeze Monday as officials announced a wave of closures and service disruptions extending through Tuesday, Jan. 27.

Compacted snow that froze into a concrete-like sheet of ice has turned local roadways into “hazardous” zones, prompting the closure of municipal offices, and all non-emergency government facilities.

Hazardous Roads and Service Disruptions

DeSoto County Supervisor Robert Foster and Olive Branch Mayor Ken Adams both issued urgent pleas for residents to stay off the roads. Foster noted that while sunshine has appeared, temperatures hovering around 17 degrees are preventing a significant thaw, particularly in shaded areas.

“The roads are mostly covered with ice, not just snow,” Foster warned, emphasizing that county crews are actively grading and salting roads to accelerate the clearing process.

The hazardous conditions have forced several major service cancellations. You can view the complete list in our story on DeSoto County News.  

Emergency Response and Community Support

Despite the standstill, emergency responders have been working around the clock. Southaven officials reported that police, fire, and public works crews have been juggling a high volume of accident calls and water main repairs caused by the freezing temperatures.

In Olive Branch, a local business stepped up to support these efforts. Chick-fil-A Olive Branch, though closed to the public, mobilized its staff to deliver warm meals to police, fire, and emergency communications personnel.

“Their hearts remained open even if the doors were closed,” Mayor Ken Adams said of the restaurant’s staff, who personally delivered sandwiches to those working in the “unprecedented” weather.

Safety Precautions and Resources

For those lacking adequate heat, warming centers remain open at the Southaven Community Safe Room, the Gale Community Center, and the Olive Branch Storm Shelter.

Authorities recommend that residents:

• Protect Plumbing: Drip faucets and open cabinet doors to prevent frozen pipes.
• Care for Pets: Bring animals indoors or ensure they have non-frozen water sources.
• Road Safety: If travel is absolutely essential, avoid cruise control, reduce speeds significantly, and keep an emergency kit (blankets, water, flashlight) in the vehicle.