With the storm threat easing, residents and visitors are encouraged to stay weather-aware and review these important reminders and resources to help prepare for changing conditions and stay informed.
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.
Secure or remove tents: Those who have set up tents, canopies, and other temporary structures for Cruisin’ The Coast should remove or secure them properly if weather conditions warrant.
Secure outdoor items: Bring in or secure lawn furniture, trampolines, grills, garbage cans, decorations, and other outdoor items that could be blown around by strong winds.
Never drive through standing water: Avoid driving through flooded streets or standing water. Even shallow water can hide hazards, damage your vehicle, or sweep it off the road. Turn around and find another route.
Prepare for possible power outages: Charge cellphones and other essential devices, have flashlights and extra batteries available, and keep emergency supplies handy.
Use generators safely: Never operate a generator indoors, in a garage, or near doors and windows. Keep generators outdoors and away from openings to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Check on neighbors: Consider checking on older residents or anyone who may need assistance preparing for severe weather.
Keep vehicles ready: Park in a safe location, avoid areas prone to flooding, and make sure vehicles are fueled in case travel becomes necessary.
Marine traffic: The Mississippi Department of Transportation has removed gate arms from drawbridges, including I-110 and Popp’s Ferry, in preparation for tropical storm-force winds. MDOT advises that bridges may be locked down and closed to marine traffic when conditions require and will remain closed until after the storm passes.
Municipal offices: All non-emergency city offices, including Biloxi City Hall, the Biloxi Visitors Center, and Donal Snyder Sr. Community Center, will close at 3:30 p.m. today.
Follow official instructions: Be prepared to adjust plans if conditions change, and follow any advisories or instructions issued by local officials.
Stay informed: Monitor local weather forecasts and official City of Biloxi communications for updates on changing conditions, road closures, and city services.
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.
News & notes: Visitors Center, Halloween on Howard, cemetery tours
Biloxi Visitors Center: The Biloxi Visitors Center will open at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 10, instead of its regular 8 a.m. opening time due to anticipated weather conditions.
Halloween on Howard: The Saturday, Oct. 17, drive-thru trick-or-treating event will take place from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Vehicles may begin lining up at 4 p.m. at Howard and Lameuse streets and must be in line by 5 p.m. Participants will travel west to Hopkins Boulevard, stopping for treats from local businesses and vendors along the route. View the event flyer.
Old Biloxi Cemetery Tour: The 20th annual Old Biloxi Cemetery Tour will take place Sunday, Oct. 18, from 2 to 4 p.m., and Tuesday, Oct. 20, from 5 to 7 p.m., at 1066 Irish Hill Drive. This year’s theme, “Where Royalty Rests,” features self-guided portrayals of 14 characters at 11 stops. View the event flyer.
