Ice Storm Recovery Efforts Hampered on North Mississippi & Alabama Railroad

TISHOMINGO, Miss. — Recovery efforts on the North Mississippi & Alabama Railroad (NM&A) are facing significant challenges following a severe ice storm in late January 2026. The storm has left approximately 20 miles of track impassable, delaying the short line’s plans to restore freight service.

Storm Impact and Recovery Timeline

Much of northern Mississippi experienced more than one inch of ice during the late January storm, causing widespread damage. Jeremy Funderburk, president of the North Mississippi & Alabama Railroad, stated that his crew has been working 10-hour days to clear thousands of downed trees [1]. The most substantial damage is located between Paden, Mississippi, and Corinth, Mississippi.

The 42-mile short line runs from Corinth, Mississippi, to Red Bay, Alabama. The NM&A assumed operations in January 2025, and had been focused on vegetation clearing and installing approximately 2,000 crossties in preparation for resuming freight service. [1]

Challenges to Restoration

The rural terrain and limited grade crossings are complicating access for the recovery team, who are utilizing drones to assess track conditions. [1] According to Funderburk, the situation has deteriorated to the point where progress is severely restricted, stating, “When you get toward Corinth, you literally can’t take a step.”

Federal and State Support

The railroad is hopeful that a recent disaster area declaration will enable access to federal resources for debris removal, with support from the Mississippi-Alabama Railroad Authority, which acquired the line from Norfolk Southern in 1995. [1] The NM&A has already invested significant funds in repairs and is pursuing grant opportunities.

Future Prospects

The NM&A has received strong support from local businesses eager to utilize rail service, including Sunshine Mills, a feed company. The railroad aims to support transload opportunities and car repair/storage services. The line had been embargoed in 2022 due to poor track conditions before the NM&A took over operations. [1] Funderburk emphasized the railroad’s commitment to restoring service, highlighting the resilience of short line railroads and the quality of the existing infrastructure, noting the presence of 115-pound mainline rail and a solid roadbed. [1]

Wider Impact of the Ice Storm

The January 2026 ice storm caused widespread damage across north Mississippi, knocking out power to tens of thousands of residents. [3] Oxford and Booneville reported extensive damage, including downed power lines and trees. [3] Corinth also experienced damage, with downed power lines reported on Highway 72. [3] At least two winter weather-related deaths were reported in Mississippi. [3]