The week of Feb. 15 is designated as “Severe Weather Preparedness Week” in Mississippi.

Severe weather is coming next week bringing freezing rain to the southern part of the state. Along with freezing temperatures, weather related power outages are to be expected.

Residents are encouraged to prepare for severe weather, including making an emergency kit of basic supplies. Having one for the home and one in your vehicle is the best option.

Other tips include having a weather application on one’s smart phone and a weather radio.

Emergency Management Director Clifford Galey advises residents to only leave their homes if necessary next week. According to the National Weather Service, temperatures in Brookhaven are expected to be in the 20s next week.

“If it ices up, stay home and don’t get out,” Galey said. “The snow is different from the ice. You can navigate through snow, but you can’t navigate through ice. “

Galey said there’s a possibility Brookhaven will see sleet or even snow next week, specifically on Monday night through Tuesday morning.

“Between now and Tuesday, it’s going to be very cold,” Galey said.

Residents are advised to leave water faucets dripping overnight to prevent pipes from freezing or busting. In the case of a pipe freezing, turn water off to the home so the pipe can thaw out.

Galey hopes residents can stay safe during this period of severe weather.

“Just try to stay in and stay warm,” Galey said. “And be sure to check on old and sick folks.”