JACKSON, Miss. — The Mississippi Department of Transportation will temporarily close several welcome centers and rest areas across North Mississippi beginning Friday evening as a round of extreme winter weather moves into the region.
MDOT said the closures will start Friday, Jan. 23, and are expected to remain in place through Wednesday, Jan. 28, depending on weather conditions and road safety.
The following facilities will close:
Welcome Centers
Lula Welcome Center
DeSoto County Welcome Center
Alcorn County Welcome Center
Itawamba County Welcome Center
Rest Areas
I‑55 northbound rest area in DeSoto County
I‑55 northbound and southbound rest areas in Panola County
I‑55 southbound rest area in Vaiden
MDOT emphasized that driveway entrances and parking lots will remain open, allowing drivers to safely pull over if needed during the winter storm.
Travelers can monitor real‑time road conditions at MDOTtraffic.com, through the MDOT Traffic mobile app, or by following @MississippiDOT on Facebook and X.
Bob Bakken provides content for DeSoto County News and its social media channels. He is an award-winning broadcaster, along with being a reporter and photographer, and has done sports media relations work with junior and minor league hockey teams. Along with his reports on this website, you will find this veteran media member providing sports updates on Rebel 95.3 FM Radio.
