Masks required in Lee, Lowndes, Noxubee and Pontotoc counties

Local counties are now four hours into a new state order that tightens restrictions aimed at packing more of a punch against the coronavirus.

Lee, lowndes, noxubee and pontotoc counties joined other counties at eight this morning under governor tate reeves stricter order.

It requires masks when at public and social gatherings when social distancing is not possible.

The stricter mask mandate does allow for exceptions such as medical conditions, organized school athletic practices and outdoor exercising.

It also calls for stricter limits on social gatherings -- no more than ten indoors and no more than 20 outdoors.

This new order is set to expire august 17th.