Alcorn State University reported that its campus is safe after receiving an email threat that prompted a lockdown Wednesday morning. The university issued a Brave Alert and instructed students to shelter in place while emergency protocols were activated. Local, state and federal agencies, along with campus police, responded to the threat. The investigation is ongoing. Heightened security measures remain in place, and access to campus continues to be restricted.
A major winter storm is approaching Louisiana and Mississippi. Forecasters expect sleet and freezing rain primarily in the northern part of Louisiana. Areas from south of Lake Charles to Baton Rouge are not expected to experience icing, while regions north of that line toward Alexandria may see a brief period of freezing rain. The most severe winter weather is expected in northern Louisiana from Friday night through Sunday morning, with freezing rain and sleet likely. Travel is not recommended during this period, and power outages are possible. Residents are urged to prepare for potential loss of power, heat and limited travel over the weekend.
Governor Tate Reeves has declared a state of emergency ahead of the winter storm expected to impact Mississippi beginning today. State area coordinators are working with local emergency managers to identify any gaps in local response plans. The state is also coordinating with utility providers as ice accumulation is expected to affect power lines. Residents are encouraged to prepare for possible outages and to avoid travel if conditions worsen. The Mississippi Department of Transportation is pre-treating highways, but hazardous road conditions remain a concern.
In Louisiana, St. Landry Parish is seeking an opinion from Attorney General Liz Murrell on whether the state’s cockfighting ban is unconstitutional. The practice has been illegal statewide for 18 years, and it also remains banned at the federal level. Supporters in the parish argue that legalizing cockfighting could generate significant revenue, while opponents question whether economic benefit justifies overturning existing animal welfare laws.
The Mississippi River at Natchez-Vidalia is at 17 feet and rising.