Olive Branch declares state of emergency
Ken Adams, mayor of Olive Branch, has declared a state of emergency. (Brad Vest/Special to The Daily Memphian file)
Olive Branch Mayor Ken Adams declared a state of emergency Thursday, Jan. 18, following “unprecedented winter weather.”
According to a statement from Adams’ office, record low temperatures and icy conditions throughout the region have stressed all utility systems. The roads have become almost impossible to navigate.
“The City of Olive Branch has salt/sand trucks that have been running around the clock since before the winter precipitation began Sunday evening,” the declaration states. “We expect ice on roadways to begin melting as temperatures rise, however, refreezing will most likely occur overnight as lows are expected to be below freezing again.”
As of Thursday afternoon, the city said it had no reports of ruptured water mains, but it has received a “very high call volume” from customers with busted water pipes in homes and businesses.
Olive Branch residents are encouraged to conserve water and refrain from non-essential water use to help replenish the city’s water system.
To report a ruptured water line, call 662-895-4111.
According to the Olive Branch Police Department, there have been no weather-related deaths as of Thursday afternoon, but the department was working more than 20 motor vehicle accident reports at the time of its last update.
The OBPD said if residents are in a fender bender, and there are absolutely no injuries and no vehicles that need to be towed, they should exchange information with the other party and report the incident to the department once road conditions return to normal.
However, if a resident is involved in a motor vehicle collision, and there are injuries or the need to tow a vehicle, they can call 911 or 662-895-4111 for first responder assistance.
“Mayor Adams, the Board of Aldermen and all of us at the City of Olive Branch appreciate your assistance in conserving water, staying off the roads and checking in on your neighbors,” the declaration continues. “Thank you for your support and willingness to assist our EMS and Public Works departments during this challenging time.”
Topics
Olive Branch Mayor Ken Adams DeSoto County North Memphis State of emergency Winter stormRob Moore
Rob Moore covers North Mississippi for The Daily Memphian. He holds a B.A. and an M.A. in English from The University of Memphis.
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