On February 2, 2026, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Kristi Noem and Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves met in Tupelo, Mississippi, to acknowledge the work of local and state first responders involved in managing Winter Storm Fern. The agencies recognized included the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, the Mississippi National Guard, and the Mississippi Department of Transportation.
DHS started working with Mississippi several days before the storm began to prepare for its effects. This early coordination aimed to make recovery efforts more efficient by delivering resources quickly, restoring essential services faster, and providing support to communities most affected by the storm. After a federal emergency disaster was declared on January 24, 2026, DHS sent personnel to the state’s emergency operations center to improve cooperation with local partners.
“Thank you to our first responders, emergency managers, and support personnel for protecting American lives during extreme winter conditions,” said Secretary Noem. “These men and women led these efforts from the bottom up – and that’s how things get done the right way. DHS and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will continue listening to on-the-ground feedback to ensure federal resources are supporting this state-led response in the most efficient manner. Under the leadership of President Trump, we’re proud to support the state of Mississippi.”
DHS has provided 90 generators at Mississippi’s request to help keep critical facilities running during power outages caused by Winter Storm Fern. Additionally, DHS delivered 49 trailer loads of supplies such as meals, water, tarps, oxygen canisters, and blankets to supplement what was already available in the state. The agency continues coordinating with state officials for further supply needs.
People affected by Winter Storm Fern are advised to reach out to their local emergency management office or area volunteer agencies if they require assistance related to storm impacts.
