Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson is urging residents to prepare ahead of a potential winter storm expected to impact the area this weekend, bringing freezing temperatures and hazardous conditions from Friday night through Sunday.
According to national weather forecasts, the system could bring lows in the teens and a high chance of precipitation, including rain, freezing rain, and sleet. Mayor Gibson warned that conditions are expected to begin declining Friday night and worsen through Saturday and Sunday.
Mayor Gibson encouraged residents not to wait until the last minute to prepare, advising citizens to stock up on food, water, and essential supplies, wrap pipes, fill gas tanks, check on elderly and vulnerable neighbors, and make plans to keep pets indoors during freezing temperatures. He also reminded residents to allow faucets to drip during hard freezes to help prevent broken pipes and protect the city’s water system.
In response to the anticipated weather, the Natchez Stewpot announced it will be closed on Sunday and may also be closed on Saturday depending on conditions. The Stewpot plans to prepare extra meals on Friday. Those needing additional information can contact the Stewpot at 601-442-9413.
Adams County Emergency Management also announced plans to open the Adams County Safe Room to provide warm shelter for those in need. Final details will be released following a planning meeting scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 22, 2026. Individuals using the safe room are asked to bring their own food, drinks, medications, blankets, and other essential items. Kennels are required for animals. The Adams County Safe Room is located at 323 Liberty Road.
The Concordia Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness reports that Concordia Parish and Adams County are currently at Level 2, indicating the potential for extended impacts from freezing rain and sleet. While forecasts suggest the heaviest winter weather may remain north of Concordia Parish, officials caution that dangerous travel conditions, downed trees, and possible power outages remain a concern.
Rain and freezing rain are expected Friday night, with freezing rain and sleet possible throughout Saturday and into Sunday. Overnight lows could fall into the mid-teens by Sunday night.
Emergency officials continue to encourage residents to closely monitor weather updates, maintain emergency supplies, ensure multiple ways to receive alerts, and follow instructions from local law enforcement and emergency management. Residents are reminded to stay off icy roads when possible, leave faucets on a slow drip to help prevent broken waterlines during below-freezing temperatures, and report downed power lines to Entergy at 1-800-368-3749 or by calling 911.
Officials say early preparation and staying informed will be key to keeping the Natchez and Adams County communities safe as the winter weather approaches.
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