Out of 11 counties with PHMSA gas distribution data, these are the counties with the highest incident risk.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Counties ranked | 11 |
| Total incidents (top 100) | 17 |
| Total fatalities (top 100) | 3 |
Top 11 Counties
| Rank | County | State | Incidents | Fatalities | Latest Year | Risk Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hinds | Mississippi | 6 | 1 | 2024 | 19/100 |
| 2 | Warren | Mississippi | 2 | 1 | 2017 | 10/100 |
| 3 | Madison | Mississippi | 2 | 0 | 2011 | 5/100 |
| 4 | Lee | Mississippi | 1 | 0 | 2025 | 17/100 |
| 5 | Pontotoc | Mississippi | 1 | 0 | 2019 | 17/100 |
| 6 | Lauderdale | Mississippi | 1 | 1 | 2006 | 6/100 |
| 7 | Holmes | Mississippi | 1 | 0 | 2009 | 5/100 |
| 8 | Bolivar | Mississippi | 1 | 0 | 2007 | 1/100 |
| 9 | Monroe | Mississippi | 1 | 0 | 2022 | 1/100 |
| 10 | Rankin | Mississippi | 1 | 0 | 2009 | 1/100 |
| 11 | Coahoma | Mississippi | 0 | 0 | — | 1/100 |
Methodology
County rankings for Mississippi based on total PHMSA gas distribution incidents reported since 2004.
Data source: U.S. DOT Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), Gas Distribution System Incident Reports 2004-2026. Last updated: 2026-06-04.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a gas distribution incident?
Gas distribution incidents involve failures in the local natural gas pipeline network — leaks, ruptures, explosions, and equipment failures that can cause property damage, injuries, and fatalities. PHMSA requires all operators to report significant incidents.
How can I protect my home?
Install CO detectors on every level (CPSC recommendation). Have gas appliances inspected annually. Know the signs of a gas leak: rotten egg smell, hissing near gas lines, dead vegetation near pipelines. If you suspect a leak, leave immediately and call 911.