The federal government continues to reimburse cities and counties in Mississippi impacted by the state’s worst winter weather event in more than three decades.
Winter Storm Fern struck the state in late January, impacting more than half of Mississippi’s counties by downing power lines, destroying trees, and damaging buildings and roads. 29 deaths were also attributed to the ice storm.
In the months since, local governments have worked to clear debris and rebuild damaged areas. On Monday, FEMA announced another $26 million in reimbursements through its Public Assistance Program.
Notable projects being reimbursed in the latest announcement include:
- $4.8 million to Alcorn County for debris removal efforts.
- $4.5 million to the University of Mississippi for debris removal efforts.
- $4 million to Prentiss County for debris removal efforts.
- $2.8 million to Yalobusha County for debris removal efforts.
- $1.7 million to Panola County for debris removal efforts.
- $1.2 million to Leflore County for debris removal efforts.
- $977,000 to the Twin County Electric Power Association for emergency protective measures.
- $848,000 to the Natchez Trace Electric Power Association for utility repairs.
To date, FEMA has announced more than $75 million in Public Assistance funding for Mississippi’s recovery from Winter Storm Fern.
The agency is reimbursing eligible recovery costs at a federal cost share of at least 75%. Mississippi lawmakers also established a revolving loan program to help cities and counties cover expenses while awaiting federal reimbursement.