Gov. Phil Bryant has declared a State of Emergency in preparation for Tropical Storm Karen. The storm is forecast to impact Mississippi within the next 48 hours.
A State of Emergency declaration is an administrative tool that allows state officials to position and deploy resources to assist areas that are impacted by an emergency.
"I have declared a State of Emergency so Mississippi can respond immediately if Tropical Storm Karen affects our state," Bryant said. "Residents should not over react, but this should serve as a reminder to make your storm preparations now. I will continue working with MEMA, the Mississippi National Guard, the Department of Public Safety and other emergency officials to monitor the situation, and we will issue updates as the storm develops."
Some things residents can do to prepare for Tropical Storm Karen include knowing where they will go if evacuation is necessary and having a fully stocked emergency supply kit.
An emergency supply kit should include items like:
-Flashlight and battery-powered radio with extra batteries.
-Canned and non-perishable food.
-Bottled water.
-Toiletry items.
-Pet food and pet supplies.
-Medicine and prescription medication.
-Copies of important family papers and documents in watertight holder or stored electronically.
For details on preparedness checklists, as well as updates, please visit MEMAâs website at www.msema.org, or contact your county emergency management director. The public may also access MEMAâs mobile phone application or follow MEMA on Facebook and Twitter.