“Get What You Need and Stay Put”: Attla County EMA warning ahead of Winter Storm Fern

As Winter Storm Fern approaches central Mississippi, Attala County emergency officials are urging residents to complete preparations as soon as possible and plan to stay off the roads once hazardous conditions begin.

Attala County Emergency Management Director Danny Townsend shared updates during a Severe Weather Briefing held Friday afternoon at the Kosciusko Police Department. The briefing included a virtual presentation from the National Weather Service in Jackson, which outlined expected impacts from the storm, including freezing rain, sleet, strong wind gusts, and dangerously cold temperatures.

Townsend said one of the biggest concerns for Attala County is the combination of freezing rain and gusty winds, which could place added stress on trees and power lines.

“Any additional stress we have from wind is going to cause issues,” Townsend said, warning that falling trees and power lines could create hazardous conditions on highways and local roadways, particularly in heavily wooded areas.

Because of the expected ice accumulation, Townsend emphasized that emergency response times could be significantly delayed. He said residents should not expect normal response times during the storm.

“Where an ambulance might normally get to someone in five or ten minutes, that could turn into 20, 30, 45 minutes, or even longer,” Townsend said. “People need to expect delays and be patient.”

Townsend noted that emergency services across the region will be operating under similar conditions, limiting the availability of additional assistance from neighboring counties. While public safety agencies are prepared, resources will be stretched.

As part of the county’s preparations, Townsend urged residents to take care of essential needs immediately.

“Get whatever you need to get done today, or no later than noon tomorrow,” Townsend said. “After that, be ready to hunker down, stay at home, and stay off the streets.”

He warned that even minor crashes on icy roads can quickly become serious, especially with cold temperatures and ongoing precipitation.

“If you get out there and get pinned in a vehicle, you’re going to be in a world of hurt,” Townsend said. “With freezing rain and cold conditions, the time it takes us to get there can make the difference between life and death.”

Emergency officials continue to stress that the safest option during Winter Storm Fern will be to avoid travel altogether, prepare ahead of time, and follow guidance from local emergency management and weather officials.