The City of Biloxi is preparing for Hurricane Francine, and on Tuesday, declared a State of Emergency.
The state of emergency declared in Biloxi grants the mayor broad authority in making emergency purchases and using city personnel and equipment as needed and where needed to minimize the threat to the health and safety of city residents.
“Our message to residents and visitors is to not take this storm lightly and be vigilant in preparing,” Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich said. “We hope you have and will do all things to prepare your family and property.”
Biloxi is now under a tropical storm warning, storm surge warning, and a flood watch. Being prepared now is paramount.
“Remember your storm kit in the event an evacuation is needed,” Biloxi Fire Chief Nick Geiser said today. “Also, heavy rain is expected with this storm that may cause flooding in low-lying areas. Be cautious and don’t drive through roads with standing water.
“And, if power is lost and you plan to use a generator, keep safety in mind. Don’t run generators indoors and be careful of placement and electrical hazards.”
The city is doing its part as well. Throughout the week, Biloxi Public Works crews have been conducting maintenance of storm drains, moving through work order requests to pick up debris, and stocking sand bag locations. Biloxi Parks & Recreation is securing property at the ballfields, playgrounds, and the A.J. Holloway Sports Complex.
Over at the harbors and marinas, the Port Division has advised all tenants and boat owners of a voluntary evacuation. All have been asked to make sure boats that remain are tied to withstand abnormal tides and the storm surge, and that dock areas be cleared of unnecessary items and any remaining items be secured.
In addition, city-maintained bridges, Popp’s Ferry and Cedar Lake, closed to marina traffic at noon today. Also, the Architectural and Historical Review Commission meeting scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 12 has been canceled for Thursday, Sept. 26 at 8:30 a.m.
Added Geiser: “Stay prepared. Stock up on necessities and medications even for your pets. Make sure important documents are secured and easily accessible. And please continue to monitor weather reports.”
Storm and Flood prep and information
News & notes: Sand bags, shelters, and more
Sand bag locations: Self-serve sand bags (bring your own shovel) are available at Henry Beck Park, 671 Division St.; Migues Park, 425 Parker St.; A.J. Holloway Sports Complex, 765 Wells Drive; Fire Station 8, 8479 Woolmarket Road; and Fire Station 9, 9370 Oaklawn Road. Locations are open through Thursday.
Shelters: Shelters are open at the following locations: County Farm Road Shelter, 15038 County Farm Road, Gulfport; Lyman Senior Center (Pet Accommodations),14592 County Farm Road, Gulfport, (all pets must remain in a carrier/kennel. Owners are responsible for providing food, medications and care for pets), and D’Iberville High School, 15625 Lamey Bridge Road.
Mississippi Emergency Management: Keep up with local information regarding Hurricane Francine online. Visit the MEMA website by clicking here.
B-Alert: Sign up for on-the-go text messaging from the City of Biloxi by texting BILOXI to 99411.
Women of Wisdom: The Women of Wisdom held their 6th Annual “WOW Honors First Responders” on Monday, Sept. 9, for local First Responders in Harrison, Hancock, and Jackson counties. They host the annual event in memory of the first responders lost on Sept. 11, 2001 at the World Trade Center. Lunch was served to more than 1000 Fire and Police Stations in 14 cities and 30 different agencies, including the Biloxi Police and Fire departments. To see the Facebook post, click here.
City office closings: All non-emergency city offices close at 1 p.m. today in preparation of Hurricane Francine and are currently scheduled to open at regular hours on Thursday, Sept 12.
