MDOT offers tips to prepare for peak hurricane season
JACKSON, MISS. — The peak of the Atlantic Hurricane Season is here, and the Mississippi Department of Transportation is offering essential tips to help south Mississippi residents prepare.
The most active part of hurricane season runs from mid-August to mid-October. Now is the time to ramp up preparedness efforts and have a plan in place before a storm threatens the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
“Though we haven’t seen major activity in the tropics this season, now is not the time to let your guard down,” said Commissioner Charles Busby, Southern Transportation District. “In peak hurricane season, it’s critical to stay weather-aware and make sure you have a plan to keep you and your family safe.”
Here are a few tips to help you prepare for an evacuation during 2026 peak hurricane season:
- Know your evacuation route. The 2026 MDOT Hurricane Evacuation Guide highlights about 20 designated routes along with other critical evacuation information. Download it in English, Spanish or Vietnamese at GoMDOT.com/hurricanes.
- Allow ample time to get to your destination safely. Practice safe driving and be patient!
- Most of the time, there’s no need to evacuate hundreds of miles away. For most storms, evacuating 60-70 miles inland will help you avoid storm surge and high winds. However, always follow directives from local officials based on the storm’s path and intensity.
- Keep at least a half tank or a half charge in your vehicle during peak hurricane season.
- Know what to include in your Hurricane Survival Kit and how to prepare your home or property to weather the storm by downloading MDOT’s Hurricane Checklist at GoMDOT.com/hurricanes.
- Monitor approaching storms and follow the advice of state and local officials. If possible, evacuate early.
For more hurricane safety tips, visit GoMDOT.com/hurricanes.
