GREENVILLE, Miss. — An ice storm sweeping through the Mississippi Delta caused the collapse of canopies at multiple gas stations Tuesday, injuring at least 11 people and damaging several vehicles, authorities said.
The Greenville Fire Department responded to Rick’s Express on Broadway Extended after the canopy above the gas pumps collapsed, falling onto several vehicles. About 10 people were transported to area hospitals with injuries ranging from minor to major, officials said.
Fire crews secured the scene and assessed the stability of the remaining structure. The area around the station was blocked off, and authorities urged the public to avoid the vicinity while emergency operations continued. The store will remain closed until further notice.
Minutes after clearing that scene, Greenville firefighters were dispatched to another canopy collapse at the B-Quik on Reed Road. One injury was reported there, and several vehicles sustained damage, officials said.
Authorities said the collapses appeared to be caused by excessive water accumulation and ice buildup from the winter storm. Fire officials warned motorists to use caution when fueling at stations with visible ice or standing water on canopies and to avoid structures showing signs of sagging or instability.
Similar damage was also reported at an Exxon station in Cleveland, Mississippi, where a canopy collapse occurred during the storm.
Emergency crews remained on standby at affected locations to ensure safety until the structures could be properly secured.
