Tropical Depression Francine: What You Need to Know

As of: Thursday, September 12, 2024

As of Thursday morning, Francine was downgraded to a tropical depression. More than 300,000 Mississippi and Louisiana residents are without power; however, no injuries or deaths have been reported. Jackson residents should still remain alert for the potential of flooding in some areas.

How was Jackson impacted?

Jackson started to see rain mid-day Wednesday and has continued off and on through Thursday afternoon. The Jackson Metro area experienced high winds and heavy rain fall. These conditions could cause trees, especially those that died during last year’s drought and freeze, to fall, causing power outages.

City of Jackson: Closures, Temporary Shelter, Garbage, and Tree/Limb Debris

Due to the impact of Tropical Depression Francine on the area, City of Jackson offices will remained closed today, Thursday, September 12. All City of Jackson employees are expected to return to the office for regular hours Friday. The temporary shelter at the Jackson Police Training Academy will close at noon today. Richard's Disposal Inc. has suspended garbage pickup Thursday out of concern for the safety of its employees. Richard's will resume service tomorrow, Friday, September 13. Please call 601.960.1870 if you see tree debris blocking roadways.

Jackson Public Schools (JPS)

The schools and offices of Jackson Public Schools will be closed on Thursday, September 12, 2024, due to the anticipated severe weather conditions from Hurricane Francine. All extracurricular, athletic, and after school activities are also canceled.

Friday, September 13 is a Professional Development (PD) day for teachers, and there will be no school for scholars. The District will evaluate the weather conditions on Thursday to determine whether to proceed with its PD day for teachers and send notifications via email, the website, and social media. Visit www.jackson.k12.ms.us for updates. 

Entergy

Outages are expected to continue increasing today as Francine moves through Entergy’s service territory. Its crews and contractors are ready to respond safely and swiftly, working long hours if necessary to restore power after the storm. Entergy has started restoring service to customers where it is safe to do so and assessing damage to its system caused by Francine. Customers should stay aware and stay safe. 

Remember, Entergy crews cannot assess damage and begin repairs until winds die down, which can lengthen the time before power is restored.

  • Learn how to make an emergency kit and get important safety tips at the Entergy Storm Center.

  • Verify or update your contact information at myEntergy.com to receive the most up-to-date information during weather events.

  • Download Entergy’s Operation: Storm Ready Guide. This guide will help you plan and prepare for upcoming weather emergencies.

  • After severe weather has passed, here are 4 ways to report an outage:

    • Texting OUT to 36778

    • Using the free Entergy app

    • Reporting online here

    • Calling 800-9-OUTAGE

Property Damage

If you reside in Hinds County and your home is affected by the storm or have downed trees, please report storm-related damage to the Hinds County Emergency Management office by calling 601-960-1476 or submit a damage report here. This survey aims to help state and local emergency management officials identify and understand damages during recent storms. Please submit one survey per impacted address. Reporting damages to Emergency Management is voluntary, not a substitute for reporting damage to your insurance agency, and does not guarantee disaster relief assistance. 

Additionally, you can contact the American Red Cross at 1-800-Red-Cross (1-800-733-2767) for assistance with storm-related issues and to learn more about available resources. More American Red Cross resources are available here.

Share this information with your neighbors and community members to ensure everyone’s awareness of the necessary precautions. Remain vigilant and adhere to any local advisories or evacuation orders from authorities.

Contact us if you have questions or if you require further assistance. Your safety is our priority.


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