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JACKSON, MISS. Residents of Mississippi are not strangers to extreme weather conditions. Severe weather has the potential of becoming very dangerous, and it is important to prepare for these possible disasters. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has designated the month of September as National Preparedness Month, and the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) wants everyone to know that there is power in being prepared for potential emergencies.
With Hurricane Harvey still threatening much of the southeastern U.S., the National Weather Service (NWS) reports the potential for heavy rainfall that could produce flooding in parts of Mississippi. With the possibility of severe weather, theres no better tiime to prepare than right now. Here are some tips if you encounter severe weather while traveling.
• Turn around; dont drown! Never drive through a flooded area; the water can sweep your vehicle away or cause it to stall.
• Turn the cruise control off. Cruise control can be highly useful in dry conditions, but deadly when roads are wet.
• If you encounter hail, do not keep going. Stay in the vehicle and seek the nearest shelter.
• Headlights are important. If windshield wipers are required, headlights need to be utilized.
• Turn the radio on. If you suspect severe weather, tune into local radio stations to stay aware of weather conditions in your area.
The only thing drivers can control about weather-related emergencies is how to prepare for them before they happen. Find time to talk with family and friends about a severe weather plan, and the best evacuation route available in your area.
The most important thing to remember is safety, said Melinda McGrath, MDOT executive director. Part of being safe is staying prepared. It is not if an emergency will strike, but when. We want all Mississiappians to be prepared and know the steps to take if they are faced with an emergency.
For more safety tips, visit GoMDOT.com/drivesmartms or like and follow @MississippiDOT on Facebook and Twitter. For hurricane specific information, including evacuation routes, visit GoMDOT.com/hurricanes.
