On April 24, a series of violent storms, including a powerful tornado, swept across Mississippi, leaving behind a path of devastation.  Altogether, these storms represent the worst natural disaster our state has seen since Hurricane Katrina.  Eighteen counties and tens of thousands of Mississippians were impacted, and hundreds of homes were damaged or destroyed.  One of the tornadoes that touched down in Central Mississippi was classified by the National Weather Service as an EF-4, with winds reaching 170 miles per hour.  Tragically, ten Mississippians lost their lives. My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this disaster.

In the wake of the storm, state and local officials responded swiftly to assess the damage. I appreciate the effective leadership of Governor Barbour, and the efforts of state and local officials. My office has been working closely with emergency management teams to make sure each community has the support it needs. We are also working with federal agencies to ensure resources are available at the appropriate time.

                              The Federal Response
I was encouraged to see the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) quickly deploy and begin assessing the severity of the damage.  Following the storms, I spoke with FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate and received assurances that the agency would work to meet the needs of every impacted community.  FEMA has been working with the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, the Small Business Association, and local officials to evaluate the destruction and allocate recovery resources.  As these agencies estimate the costs of the storms’ devastation, it is important that residents and small business owners report all damage so that Mississippi can maximize assistance.

Governor Barbour has applied for a federal disaster designation for the hardest hit areas, including Yazoo, Choctaw, Attala, Holmes, and Warren counties. The federal disaster designation would allow federal resources to be allocated to help those communities begin the long and difficult recovery process.  The Mississippi Congressional delegation joined efforts and sent a letter to the President endorsing the governor’s request and calling on the administration to make all federal resources available to impacted Mississippi communities. We know well from our ongoing work to rebuild and renew from Hurricane Katrina in 2005 that significant resources and broad cooperation are imperative to recovery efforts.  The best way to meet this new challenge is through a strong and swift response that brings together the efforts of local officials, the state, and the federal government.

                         Local Support and Volunteerism
There is much that Mississippians can do on the ground as well.  The Mississippi Commission for Volunteer Service is coordinating relief efforts and has set up a volunteer reception center in Yazoo City.  From there, teams are being sent out to assist residents and business owners whose property, homes, or businesses were damaged in the storm. Over 200 volunteers have already deployed, and more are needed.  Others can lend a helping hand by making donations, which are also being collected and distributed by the state volunteer commission. Residents who wish to make a donation or are willing and able to join volunteer efforts should visit www.volunteermississippi.org.

Although challenges of this magnitude overwhelmingly unite communities and bring out the best in citizens, there are occasionally a few who abuse the circumstances and take advantage of those in need.  Unfortunately, some insurance companies, contractors, or other seemingly helpful individuals target storm victims who are under stress.  Everyone should be wary of scams and rely on help only from trustworthy people or sources.

There is no question our state has been dealt another serious blow.  However, the people of Mississippi are resilient. Our ability to weather any storm has been tested in the past, and I know we will recover and emerge stronger than before.  I hope every citizen will find a way to help those who have been affected through volunteer efforts, donations, and prayers and support for our fellow Mississippians.

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