Cruisers from across the country are in Biloxi this week enjoying Cruisin’ The Coast, with classic cars and car enthusiasts taking part in the annual event. The Biloxi Block Party on Wednesday also drew a tremendous turnout, adding to the excitement of this year’s Cruisin’ The Coast.
While the festivities continue, city officials are keeping an eye on the weather as Hurricane Isaias develops and could potentially bring wind and rain to the Coast. While it remains uncertain as to the impact Biloxi will experience from the storm, City crews are taking precautionary steps and preparing for the possibility.
Parks & Recreation and Public Works crews have cleared ditches and drainage areas, secured city property, and are making any necessary preparations in case weather conditions deteriorate.
Possible adjustments to parking bay hours along Beach Boulevard are also being discussed, depending on weather conditions.
“We just want to remind residents and visitors to stay weather aware, to have a plan in place if necessary, and to continue to monitor weather reports,” Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich said. “We want everyone to enjoy Cruisin’, but we also want to make sure everyone is prepared for any potential weather event.”
With so many people in Biloxi for Cruisin’ The Coast, visitors and residents are reminded to keep weather conditions in mind when making travel plans. Heavy marine traffic could affect the Popp’s Ferry Bridge as vessels make preparations related to the weather, so motorists are encouraged to avoid the bridge if possible and allow additional time for travel.
Those choosing to leave the area should take I-10 or Cowan-Lorraine Road north to avoid drawbridge delays. Marine traffic should keep in mind that if winds hit 35 mph, drawbridges will remain closed.
Those who have set up tents, canopies, and other temporary structures for Cruisin’ The Coast are asked to secure them properly or remove them if weather conditions warrant. Even if the area ultimately avoids significant impacts from Isaias, taking these simple precautions can help prevent problems if winds increase.
Added Mayor Gilich: “We will adjust as needed if conditions require changes to city services, parking, traffic, or other activities. We encourage visitors and residents to do the same by staying informed, planning ahead, and allowing extra time for travel, as traffic delays are possible.”
See images from the Biloxi Block Party
See more storm prep info
See the Cruisin’ The Coast traffic plan
News & notes: B-Alert, reporting damage, sandbags
B-Alert: Stay in the know on weather and traffic advisories in Biloxi by texting BILOXI to 77295.
Damage assessments: If your property is damaged by Hurricane Isaias, contact Biloxi Community Development to report the damage and schedule an inspection. For assistance or more information, call 228-435-6280.
Sandbags: Self-service sandbags (bring your own shovel) are available at the following locations: Former Water Department Building, 195 Main St.; A.J. Holloway Sports Complex, 765 Wells Dr.; and Biloxi Fire Station 9, 9370 Oaklawn Road
