Adams County Officials Ask Residents to Report Storm Hazards After Winter Storm

Adams County officials asked residents to report storm-related hazards after the Jan. 24-25 winter storm as crews worked to assess damage across city streets, county roads and neighborhoods. A public notice relayed by the Adams County Sheriff’s Office said officials were still trying to get an accurate count of impacted areas and needed help identifying immediate dangers.

Officials asked residents to report downed trees blocking roads or driveways, power lines on the ground or hanging low, and large limbs that pose hazards. Reports should be made to Adams County Emergency Management at 601-445-3525, and residents may also submit reports online through the county’s CrisisTrack page. The sheriff’s office strongly urged the public not to approach or touch downed power lines and to assume all lines are energized and dangerous.

Information from residents helps emergency crews prioritize response efforts as conditions improve. Adams County Emergency Management is using the incoming reports to dispatch crews where the risk to public safety and access is greatest, and to coordinate with utility partners on power-line incidents. The county emphasized that identifying exact locations allows first responders to allocate resources more efficiently rather than relying solely on drive-by assessments.

The storm left crews navigating snow- and ice-packed streets as well as debris, and officials noted that hazards can be hidden in neighborhoods and on lesser-traveled county roads. Clearing obstructed roads and securing live power lines are immediate priorities because blocked driveways and roadways can delay emergency vehicles, delivery of critical services and homeowner access.

Residents who encounter a downed line or large limb that threatens a road or driveway are asked to call 601-445-3525 or use the county CrisisTrack submission option so that dispatchers can route crews and inform utility teams. The sheriff’s office reiterated that people should not try to move debris that is entangled with power infrastructure and should maintain a safe distance until professionals arrive.

As crews continue damage assessments, officials will update priorities based on cumulative reports from the public. For now, Adams County Emergency Management and the Adams County Sheriff’s Office ask neighbors to remain vigilant, report hazards promptly, and keep clear of suspected energized lines so recovery work can focus on the most dangerous locations first.