February 10, 2026 Dear Friend,
It was an honor to welcome Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem to Mississippi as she joined Governor Tate Reeves in recognizing the men and women who went above and beyond during the recovery from Winter Storm Fern. Their visit highlighted the extraordinary efforts of first responders, utility crews, and emergency personnel working on the ground to restore services and keep communities safe.
In response to the storm, President Trump swiftly approved a federal emergency disaster declaration for Mississippi and several other states, providing timely access to critical federal assistance. Through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), this support has helped restore power, clear roadways for emergency responders, and deliver lifesaving and life-sustaining resources to affected communities.
I was proud to join my colleagues in supporting Governor Reeves' request for a Major Disaster Declaration for Mississippi, which was approved by President Trump. This declaration authorized Public Assistance for 38 counties, unlocking essential federal resources to aid recovery efforts across the state. For more information, click HERE.
We are grateful to President Trump for his decisive action and to Secretary Noem for recognizing the dedication of those serving on the front lines. Their leadership is helping Mississippi communities recover and move forward as quickly as possible. |
Pictures: City of Oxford, Corinth Police Department, Tombigbee Electric Power Association, Prentiss County Electric Power Association, Magnolia Electric Power
Mississippi, along with several other states across the country, continues to recover from the devastating Winter Storm Fern. Our state was hit hard, with thousands left with no power, roadways blocked by ice and fallen trees, damaged infrastructure, and some communities left without access to water. Tragically, the loss of life continues to grow in the days following the storm.
We lift up our prayers for those who have passed and for their families and loved ones during this difficult time.
We are deeply grateful to the men and women who remain boots on the ground, working tirelessly to help Mississippi recover. Our linemen have labored day and night in dangerous conditions to restore power. Law enforcement officers, EMS personnel, firefighters, and highway patrolmen have stepped up to serve their communities when they were needed most. We also thank our National Guard and military personnel, along with many volunteers who have selflessly assisted Mississippians in need. |
We are proud to recognize Christian Rollins, a helicopter lineman with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), for his extraordinary service during the recovery efforts following Winter Storm Fern. Chris was one of many linemen who put their lives on the line to restore power to communities impacted by the storm.
At just 18 years old, Chris was working in a factory when he watched a documentary about helicopter linemen, a moment that inspired him to pursue the career he has today. He attended the Southeast Lineman Training Center in Trenton, Georgia, and after graduating and completing his apprenticeship, began what has become a 17-year career as a lineman.
Picture: Tennessee Valley Authority
In 2015, Chris joined TVA and now serves as a helicopter lineman, a specialized role that involves repairing and maintaining overhead transmission lines from a helicopter. This allows linemen to safely and efficiently reach transmission lines in hard-to-access areas. "I like being in the air," Chris said. "Seeing the views and seeing something different every day."
Following Winter Strom Fern, Chris began restoration work in Nashville and continued throughout North Mississippi and parts of northern Alabama, helping bring power back to thousands of homes and businesses.
We are deeply grateful for the dedication of Chris Rollins and all linemen who work tirelessly, often in dangerous conditions, to restore power and protect our communities. |
Winter Storm Fern blew into Alcorn County, leaving a blanket of ice on homes, businesses, and trees. All 35,000 residents were without power and many without water. Alcorn County Emergency Services Executive Director Kim McCreless took fast action to help with response efforts along with her team members 9-1-1 Director Annalese Burns, and Alcorn County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) Director Evan Gibens.
Ice-covered trees and limbs began to fall, snapping power lines along the way. Scores of people became trapped in their own homes. Within minutes, the phones began to ring in the 9-1-1 call center and they didn't stop. "All of our dispatchers came in and stayed around the clock," 9-1-1 Director Annalese Burns said. "People needed wellness checks. There was no power. There were house fires. People needed oxygen. We had 800 calls in four hours!"
McCreless and Gibens coordinated with local, state emergency personnel to provide aid where needed. The Crossroads Arena became a warming center. Volunteers helped to care for approximately 180-200 people. The Department of Human Services provided 12 nurses. A local physician became a volunteer. Portable showers and laundry services were available onsite. "We have been blessed by this community," McCreless said. "Local businesses and industries – large and small, really stepped up. Scores of area residents also offered a helping hand. The Mississippi Army National Guard members cleared driveways, helped with transport and so much more."
We are deeply appreciative of the great work McCreless and her team continue to do in Alcorn County. Their hard work and dedication improve the quality of life for all those they serve. |
DeSoto County Sheriff Thomas Tuggle
Mississippi Prosecutors Association |
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Thanks for reading,
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Rep. Trent Kelly (MS-01)
Member of Congress
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