Insights > Entergy Mississippi winter storm update – 2/3/23, 1:30 p.m.

Entergy Mississippi winter storm update – 2/3/23, 1:30 p.m.

02/03/2023

Winter storm damage near Como, Mississippi
Winter storm damage near Como, Mississippi

Restoration efforts continue after several waves of freezing rain caused power outages across our service area beginning Tuesday this week. In the hardest hit areas of DeSoto, Tate, Panola and Coahoma counties, the icy conditions brought down numerous tree limbs and wires causing repeat outages in many areas. As of 1:30 p.m., about 5,000 customers remain without power, down from a peak of 12,803. We expect to restore power for the majority of customers who remain out by 10 p.m. tonight, though some cases may carry over to Saturday depending on weather conditions and ability to access damaged areas.

Our damage assessment is 93% complete and so far, we have found 503 spans or 26.2 miles of downed power lines and damage to 65 poles, 28 transformers and 17 cross arms. We have relocated resources from areas where restoration is complete to assist in restoration efforts where outages remain. A workforce of more than 1,300  scouts, vegetation crews, lineworkers, support personnel and contract resources are diligently working to restore power as quickly and safely as possible.

For updated estimated restoration times, view our outage map at www.entergy.com/view-outages. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your patience as our crews safely work our restoration plan. For tips and cold weather updates, visit www.entergy.com/cold.  

As with any weather event, please be mindful of the following safety tips:

  • Live wires can be deadly. Stay away from downed power lines. Call 1-800-9OUTAGE or 1-800-968-8243 to report downed or dangling power lines, damaged or downed poles or other damaged equipment.
  • Do not trim trees or remove debris on or near downed power lines. Only power company crews or their contractors should remove trees or limbs touching power lines. Again, stay away from downed power lines.
  • Keep away from the immediate areas where crews are working. There is always the danger of moving equipment and the possibility of construction materials, limbs or overhead wires falling to the ground.
  • If you plan on using a generator for temporary power, get a licensed electrician and disconnect from the utility electric system before hooking up to your main electric panel. 
  • Do not run a generator in a confined space without adequate ventilation. Use them only outdoors, following all manufacturers’ safety guidelines.
  • Turn off any electrical appliances that can easily be turned to the off position until power is restored.
  • Check on seniors, who can be particularly susceptible to extreme temperatures.
  • Try to stay off the roads in affected areas. More traffic in bad weather leads to more accidents, including more injuries and fatalities as well as accidents that can damage electrical poles and other equipment, creating outages and impeding the ability of crews to access and repair damage and slowing restoration.

We want to keep you informed and in control. The best way to get information about outages is via Entergy’s View Outage page on our website. Additional resources for your convenience:

  • Download our app for your smartphone at entergy.com/app or visit Entergy Storm Center to stay informed on our restoration progress.
  • Sign up for text alerts. From your cellphone, text R E G to 368374, or visit entergytext.com.
  • Follow us on Facebook and on Twitter @EntergyMS.
  • Follow updates in your local news media, like radio, television, and newspapers.

Mississippi Editorial Team