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MDOT first responders work to keep residents safe when a hurricane threatens
HATTIESBURG, MISS. – As the 2020 Atlantic Hurricane Season reaches its third week, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) first responders are prepared to ensure everyone stays safe when a tropical storm threatens the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
“When a tropical system threatens, MDOT first responders stand ready to act to ensure transportation returns to normal as quickly as possible,” Commissioner Tom King, Southern Transportation District.
MDOT starts prepping for a tropical system days before it’s predicted to make landfall by checking equipment and gassing up response vehicles. As a storm approaches the coast, depending on its strength, electrical crews will remove signal controllers in low lying areas, high mast lights and remove drawbridge arms to prepare the bridges for shutdown.
“Having a plan in place before a storm hits is just as important for MDOT as it is for residents,” said King. “A hurricane can be unpredictable. By having a plan in place and taking the necessary steps to prepare for it, we are more equipped to handle the aftermath.”
When a hurricane or tropical system hits a coastal area, serious hazards can come with it. They can produce strong winds, heavy rains, storm surge, and even tornadoes. As a storm moves inland, MDOT first responders monitor the roadways. If a road or bridge is deemed unsafe to travel on it will be closed until the storm passes and crews are able to evaluate the area.
Once the system moves inland, MDOT first responders survey affected areas, clearing roadways of debris or sand, while working diligently until highways are back open. MDOT’s goal is to get traffic back to normal as soon as possible to ensure the roadways are safe for anyone in need of emergency travel.
During a hurricane or tropical system MDOT must reallocate its resources to ensure the equipment and manpower are ready to respond at any moment. This decreases the resources that could be used for maintenance or construction projects.
“In times of emergency MDOT’s resources are mobilized to protect the safety of Mississippians and the preservation of infrastructure,” said King. “That’s why consistent funding is so vital. We have to be able to respond to areas in need while working to keep the highways open and traffic moving as normal.”
Residents, businesses and community organizations should also have their own plans in place when a storm threatens. The 2020 MDOT Hurricane Evacuation Guide is an essential resource that allows people to see where their best evacuation route is located. The guide also features information to assist in developing a preparedness plan such as contraflow information, radio coverage areas through Mississippi Public Broadcasting and important contact information from the Mississippi Highway Patrol, American Red Cross, Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and bordering state DOTs and highway patrols. Individuals and families will find vital resources on shelters, pet care, lodging and travel resources.
“The safety of every Mississippian is MDOT’s top priority. We want to keep you safe and out of harm’s way during a hurricane or tropical storm, but we need your help to do that,” said King.
Order a free copy today at GoMDOT.com/maps. Guides are also available in Spanish and Vietnamese. Also available are children’s hurricane activity book, state maps and more.
For more hurricane safety tips, visit GoMDOT.com/hurricanes.
During the storm, the public can stay updated on live travel and weather information 24/7 with MDOT’s free travel resources. Visit MDOTtraffic.com or download the MDOT Traffic mobile app.
Follow @MississippiDOT on Facebook and Twitter along with the hashtag #HurricaneStrong this hurricane season.
