Whether you are sheltering in place or need to evacuate, there are a number of basic items you will need at your disposal. That is why it is critical that every household assemble an emergency kit ahead of time and keep it current.
Basic items to include >Showcase
Preparedness is key, which is why it’s so important to have a plan. While disasters can be unpredictable, a plan can help ensure that you and your family stay safe when a disaster strikes. So, please take time to create a disaster plan by following the simple steps below.
Simple steps >
MEMA has created a new disaster preparedness guide to help Mississippi's older citizens prepare for any type of disaster. Inside, you'll find ways to assess your needs, make a plan, and engage your support network to plan for any disaster. Request a free copy today at memainfo@mema.ms.gov.
Download the guide >
Stay Connected During the Storm. Tune in to MPB TV and Radio for the latest information. Radio updates are provided hourly.
Take Power Over Storm Anxiety
- Know where your safe spot is
- Get a weather radio
- Pack an Emergency kit
- Learn about local warning systems
- Outdoor sirens
- Mass notification systems
- Learn about weather terms
- Know that you are not alone
- Dial 988- suicide and crisis lifeline
- 1-800-985-5990- disaster distress hotline
Have a Plan
Step 1: Begin Developing your Plan by Answering these Questions
- Which types of disasters are most likely to affect my area?
- How will I receive emergency alerts and warnings?
- What is my evacuation route?
- If I must evacuate, what is my shelter plan?
- What is my family’s communication plan?
- Is my emergency disaster kit ready to go?
Step 2: Consider your Family’s Specific Needs
Disaster plans can vary depending on your lifestyle and daily responsibilities. Take into account some of these unique factors when developing your disaster plan:
- Children
- Elderly family members
- Disabilities and functional needs
- Medical needs, such as prescriptions and equipment
- Dietary needs
- Pets or service animals
- Cultural and religious considerations
Step 3: Write Down your Disaster Emergency Plan
After answering the questions above and considering your family’s specific needs, you’re ready to write down your disaster emergency plan.
Your emergency plan should include:
- Names and contact information for each household family member
- Include individual medical needs or information if applicable
- An out-of-town contact to act as a central point of communication to help your household reconnect if separated
- Insurance information
- Contact information for medical providers
- Emergency meeting place
- Determine a safe place where your family can go for protection or to reunite if separated.
- Any other important phone numbers, which may include:
- School or childcare facility
- Veterinarian
- Emergency services
The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency’s mobile app is also an excellent resource to help you create your emergency plan.
Step 4: Practice your Plan with your Family
At least once a year, you’ll want to review, update and practice your family’s disaster emergency plan so you’ll be ready whenever a disaster strikes.
Preparing for a disaster can be extremely stressful on a family, both financially and mentally. You are not alone, many suffer from storm anxiety. Storm anxiety is having obsessive thoughts about potential storms. It can cause distress when you know severe weather is forecasted and can cause extreme fear or dread during weather events. Having a plan in place can help individuals cope with storm anxiety.
Organizations Assisting Mississippi Tornado Victims
Several organizations and agencies are actively helping residents affected by recent tornadoes in Mississippi, providing emergency relief, recovery support, and volunteer coordination.
American Red Cross
- Deployed teams across multiple counties to assess damage and coordinate aid
- Operating the Disaster Relief Hotline at 1‑866‑GET‑INFO (TDD 1‑800‑526‑1417) for 24/7 assistance, with caseworkers visiting families to address urgent needs
- Offering mobile and fixed feeding programs, shelter support, and referrals for supplies or vouchers
- Accepting donations via redcross.org, phone (1‑800‑REDCROSS), or local chapters
Local Churches and Faith-Based Groups
Catholic Charities, Inc.
- Providing assistance including meals and distribution services
- Disaster Recovery
Salvation Army
- If you are in Mississippi and affected by the tornadoes, you can also contact local Salvation Army centers or FEMA’s Disaster Assistance line at 800‑621‑3362 for help
Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA)
- Coordinating with local officials to identify needs and direct resources
- May 6th-7th Severe Weather | Mississippi Emergency Management Agency
Mississippi Commission for Volunteer Service (MCVS)
- Partnering with nonprofits and faith-based groups to provide a centralized resource hub
- Volunteer Mississippi – Mississippi Commission for Volunteer Service
How to Help
- Volunteer: Join organized efforts through MEMA, MCVS, or local churches to avoid overwhelming communities
- Donate: Monetary or in-kind donations are accepted by the American Red Cross, and local agencies
- Stay Informed: Follow official channels for shelter locations, donation sites, and safety updates.
If you want to assist, call the American Red Cross hotline, visit local donation centers, or volunteer through recognized Mississippi agencies to ensure your help reaches those in need efficiently.
Do you need help after a disaster?
You can apply for FEMA disaster assistance and be guided to other resources to help you recover.
If you need help to complete your application for any reason, call the FEMA helpline, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (in your time zone), 7 days a week.
Hours may be longer during periods of high activity.
If you use a video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone (CTS), or other service, give FEMA your number for that service.