Winter Storm paralyzes DeSoto County; officials urge “Emergency Travel Only”
Photo: A Sunday evening view of Goodman Road, looking west from the I-55 interchange. (MDOT Traffic image)
DESOTO COUNTY, Miss. — The weekend winter storm with a mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow brought DeSoto County to a virtual standstill, prompting local leaders to issue emergency travel advisories as roads become impassable.
The Mississippi Department of Transportation and local law enforcement agencies, continued urging residents to stay off the roads. Officials described the current conditions as some of the worst the region has seen in a decade.
Several scheduled activities and events scheduled for Monday were canceled or postponed. A complete list is noted on DeSoto County News. (CLICK HERE)
Public Safety and Infrastructure
Public Works crews across the county worked during the weekend, utilizing tractor plows and sand spreaders to clear paths for emergency vehicles. In Southaven, authorities reported multiple vehicles sliding off roadways on bridges and overpasses.
“The roads are not typical after a winter storm,” the Horn Lake Police Department added in a statement. “Please help keep the streets clear so emergency services can respond effectively.”
Residents have also been warned of potential scams. Olive Branch Mayor Ken Adams alerted the public to fraudulent text messages claiming to be from the Tennessee Valley Authority regarding power outages. Officials emphasize that any utility updates will come through official channels.
Sports and Events Postponed
The winter weather has also cooled local entertainment. The Memphis Hustle game against the Stockton Kings, originally set for Monday, has been rescheduled for Feb. 19.
