Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves has formally requested a federal Major Disaster Declaration for multiple counties impacted by severe winter storms that swept across the state from Jan. 23 through Jan. 27, 2026.
If approved, the declaration would unlock federal assistance for individuals, workers, and local governments affected by the historic ice and winter weather event.
According to Reeves, the request includes Individual Assistance, which would allow residents to seek federal help for storm-related losses, as well as Disaster Unemployment Assistance for those who lost work or income as a result of the storm. The request also seeks Public Assistance funding to help local governments cover costs related to emergency response and debris removal.
State officials have been working closely with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), along with state agencies and local governments, to assess damage and compile the necessary documentation to meet federal disaster thresholds.
“Together, we’ve been assessing damage and working to ensure that my request met the required federal thresholds,” Reeves said in a statement.
The governor described the request as a key step in the state’s ongoing recovery effort following what he called a historic winter weather storm. He emphasized that Mississippi will continue using all available resources to assist affected residents and communities.
“We will not stop until the work is complete,” Reeves said.
State officials noted that the request could be amended in the coming weeks if additional damage is identified. As more losses are reported and validated, additional counties may be added for consideration for Individual Assistance and/or Public Assistance.
A decision from the federal government on the disaster declaration request is expected in the coming days or weeks.
