Caution Winter Weather Conditions

Current Conditions
A winter weather system is impacting most of Mississippi, creating hazardous conditions across the National Forests in Mississippi. Visitors should anticipate:

• Freezing temperatures and wind chills
• Icy roads, bridges, and shaded curves
• Falling trees and downed limbs
• Possible power outages and blocked access routes
• Limited or delayed emergency response due to conditions

Conditions can change quickly and may remain dangerous even after precipitation stops. 

Travel and Safety Impacts on the Forest 

Road conditions on and near the forest may be unsafe or impassable due to ice accumulation and debris. Even maintained routes can become hazardous, especially:

• Higher elevations
• North-facing slopes
• Shaded roads and valleys
• Low-water crossings and bridges
• Gravel, dirt, and seasonal roads

Before You Consider Visiting
Visitors are urged to evaluate conditions carefully before traveling. If you do choose to travel to the forest, prepare for self-sufficient travel and the possibility you may not be able to safely return the same day. Do not rely on GPS alone. Many forest roads are not maintained for winter driving and may appear open while conditions are unsafe.

Recommended Preparations
Before traveling, make sure you have:

• A full tank of fuel (and keep it above half at all times)
• A fully charged phone and a backup battery pack
• A vehicle appropriate for winter conditions (4WD/AWD recommended; chains may be needed in severe icing)
• Warm clothing and winter gear, even for short trips insulated jacket, hat, gloves, waterproof boots
• Food and water for at least 24 hours
• Emergency supplies, including blankets or sleeping bag, flashlight/headlamp, first aid kit, shovel, traction aid (sand/cat litter), ice scraper, tow strap (if trained to use it safely)
• A paper map or offline map downloaded before leaving service range
• A plan shared with someone, including where you’re going and when you expect to return

If you cannot safely stay overnight in your vehicle if needed, it is not a good time to travel to the forest.

If You Become Stuck or Stranded
If you find yourself stuck due to icy conditions, downed trees, or road hazards:

• Stay with Your Vehicle- Leaving your vehicle in freezing conditions can be more dangerous than remaining sheltered.
• Call for Help Early- If you are in immediate danger or need emergency assistance, call 911. Be aware that during ice storms, response times may be significantly delayed due to road conditions, high call volume, and limited access.
• Conserve Battery and Fuel- Use your phone sparingly and keep it warm to preserve battery life. Run your vehicle intermittently for heat only if the exhaust pipe is clear. If snow/ice blocks the tailpipe, do not run the vehicle due to carbon monoxide risk
• Make Yourself Visible - Turn on hazard lights if safe to do so. If possible, use bright clothing or a light source to increase visibility.
• Watch for Falling Trees and Debris- Freezing conditions and high winds increase the risk of:
  • Tree failure
  • Limb drop
  • Downed powerlines
  • Blocked roads and trails

Avoid parking or walking under leaning trees or heavy canopy during storm conditions. If you encounter a downed powerline, do not approach it. Move away and report it to local authorities.

Public Services and Access
During winter storm conditions, some services may not be available, including:

• Limited access to facilities and trailheads
• Water may not be available
• Reduced staffing and delayed updates
• Road obstructions that may take time to clear
• Visitors should be prepared for little to no on-site assistance.

Get Updates Before You Travel

• Weather Forecasts
• Emergency Updates- Mississippi Emergency Management Agency
• For emergencies or immediate threats to life/safety, call 911

Bottom Line
Winter weather conditions can make travel on the forest unpredictable and dangerous, even for experienced visitors. Those planning to visit should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, limited services, and delayed response capability.