Mississippi Governor Declares State of Emergency After Devastating Severe Weather Kills 24 and Leaves Thousands Without Power

Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves declared a state of emergency on Saturday in areas affected by the severe weather that hit the state on Friday night. At least 24 people were killed, dozens injured and four missing after powerful storms and at least one tornado pummeled the Southeast.

The state of emergency was declared in all counties affected by the severe storms, according to a release. The provisions of the proclamation will remain in effect until the threat to public safety ceases to exist.

“I’m devastated by the destruction and loss of life that these storms have caused,” Reeves said. “Further, all agencies of the State of Mississippi shall discharge their emergency responsibilities as deemed necessary as set forth in the State of Mississippi’s Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan.”

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas also tweeted that his department will “provide support to the affected communities.”

The storms caused extensive damage to homes and businesses in the region, with some neighborhoods nearly leveled. Thousands of people were left without power.

The state of Mississippi is now working to assess the damage and provide assistance to those affected by the storms.