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 Eye on Dennis
Sunday, July 10, 2005
Shutting down the blog
Thanks for following Hurricane Dennis with the Sun Herald's Eye on Dennis blog. Hopefully this has helped some people get information and feel connected to the situation.
We feel lucky to have dodged a bullet again, making our "Eye on" blogs 2-for-2 in hurricane avoidance. We send our best to those who were adversely affected by Dennis. You have folks thinking about you and will have a lot of good people coming to help as soon as things quiet down.
Gov. Barbour announces federal declaration (CORRECTION)
[MEMA sends out a corrected release which follows.]
A press release from the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency: Jackson -- Governor Haley Barbour announced today that Federal Emergency Management Agency Undersecretary Mike Brown approved Mississippi’s request for a federal disaster declaration for emergency protective measures. The declaration will provide assistance to state and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations for emergency protective measures and debris removal. The following counties are eligible for the assistance: Attala, Calhoun, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Clarke, Clay, Covington, Forrest, George, Greene, Hancock, Harrison, Itawamba, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson Davis, Jones, Kemper, Lamar, Lauderdale, Leake, Lee, Lowndes, Madison, Monroe, Neshoba, Newton, Noxubee, Oktibbeha, Perry, Pontotoc, Rankin, Scott, Smith, Stone, Wayne, Webster and Winston. For continuing information concerning Hurricane Dennis, go to MEMA’s Web site at www.msema.org.
Discount rooms available for evacuees
People looking for rooms because of evacuations or damage caused by Hurricane Dennis will be eligible for rooms at reduced rates. The Mississippi Gulf Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Mississippi Hotel and Lodging Association are working with hotels to offer discounts.
Displaced persons can place reservations by calling toll free (888) 388-1006. Mississippi Gulf Coast hotels were evacuated Saturday due to earlier analyses of Dennis’ prospective track. John Edwards, Interim Director of Harrison County Emergency Management said in a statement, "We understand these emergency needs faced by our neighbors and thank the Mississippi Hotel and Lodging Association and our local convention and visitors bureau for acting so quickly to offer Mississippi hospitality. I know our neighbors would do the same for us had the circumstances been reversed."
Casino news
The Mississippi Gaming Commission is still in the decision-making process on when to open casinos in Harrison County.
Stennis Space Center opens Monday (updated)
Stennis Space Center will open for normal operations Monday. Employees requiring leave need to contact their supervior. For daily status reports, employees should call (228) 688-3777 or check the NASA/SSC website at http://www.ssc.nasa.gov.
Bayou Potage bridge opens Monday
The Bayou Potage Bridge, located north of Henderson Point in Pass Christian, will reopen for marine traffic at 9 a.m. Monday.
Jackson County status
Jackson County have lifted curfews and rescinded evacuation orders. Sun Herald reporter Margaret Baker reports there are some downed trees and power lines with some standing water there. There was one fire in Pascagoula, which was not storm related.
More Harrison County details
The press release, which includes information about shelters remaining open tonight, evacuation orders rescinded and city and county offices opening Monday:
Effective at 6 p.m., the Harrison County Board of Supervisors, on the recommendation of its Emergency Management Agency, and in consultation with emergency managers in all five cities within the county, has lifted the county-wide curfew. Concurrently, all evacuation orders for Harrison County have been rescinded. Shelter occupants will be allowed to return home tonight if they desire. However, if an occupant's home is inaccessible due to damage or flooding, or they feel it is unsafe to return, they will be allowed to remain in the shelter tonight. Motorists are encouraged to exercise extreme caution when traveling, as there may be debris or standing water on the roadways. Some traffic signals on Highway 90 may be programmed in the flashing mode, and could cause confusion. All county and city offices will be open for business Monday. Employees should report for duty as scheduled. The Emergency Operations Center will remain open as long are there are any storm warnings.
Curfew lifted in Harrison County
Harrison County emergency officials have lifted the curfew in the county effect at 6 p.m.
Gasoline available near Gautier
Tony Teague has the gas if you need it. He is manning the Lil' Short Shop #5 on Highway 57 just south of Interstate 10 near Gautier.
While most gas stations in south Mississippi had closed their doors because of Hurricane Dennis, Teague was still going. He said he would stay "until the wind make me shut down, but I don't think it will get that bad. When that garbage can (outside) starts wobbling, I'll put up the boards and probably still stay open." Teague was there for the duration in any case. "When the power goes out, I'm the alarm system."
Tour of Gulfport
Sun Herald photographer David Purdy rode along with Gulfport fire chief Pat Sullivan surveying the city. They went to several areas prone to flooding and found no standing water. They didn't find any branches or limbs blocking roads. David estimated wind gusts at 35 mph with intermittent rains of some intensity.
Curfew *remains* in effect in Harrison County
Erroneous reports are spreading that the curfew will be lifted at various times tonight. There has been no decision as to when that might happen. Check here for official verification when a decision is made.
Jones County Junior College
Jones County Junior College will cancel day classes Monday, but night classes will meet. Offices will re-open at noon Monday, which is when office staff, maintenance and housekeeping personnel should report.
JCJC will return to its normal schedule at noon. Check www.jcjc.edu for more information.
Weather update
From Melissa Scallan, the Sun Herald's weather reporter:
"National Weather Service Meteorologist Phil Grigsby said Hurricane Dennis hit slightly further to the east than expected, which lessened the effects on South Mississippi. This area can expect winds of about 40 mph and 1-2 inches of rain."
Report from Gulf Breeze, Fla.
Sun Herald outdoors writer Al Jones talked to Dan Abshire, a fishing buddy of his who lives in Gulf Breeze, Fla. In his neighborhood, Abshire said he saw two two-story homes that had uprooted trees speared through their roofs. He said they'd gotten wind gusts to 150 mph, but the water wasn't as bad as Ivan. Last year, he got 7 feet of water in his home. Dennis brought water to his home, but not in it.
Hurricane warning lifted
Mississippi coastal counties are now under just a tropical storm warning.
Harrison County press release
Emergency management officials for Harrison County have issued this status report on protecting the public from Hurricane Dennis:
The National Weather Service and other authorities agree, sustained winds of 40 mph with possible gusts of 60 mph will likely strike Harrison County this evening and continue for several hours. Heavy rain could accompany the high winds, causing rivers to overflow, covering some streets and flooding low-lying area. Isolated tornadoes are possible. The Tchoutacabouffa River will likely flood tonight at 9.5 feet (flood stage is 8 feet). The Biloxi River will likely flood tonight and crest at 14.5 feet (flood stage is 12 feet). Because of the risk of high wind, twisters and flooding, Harrison County will not lift its evacuation order or countywide curfew for at least the next several hours. When weather conditions improve to a safe level, we will re-evaluate the evacuation order, countywide curfew and shelter conditions, perhaps tonight. The evacuation order and countywide curfew may be lifted after dark, but many shelter evacuees live on the rivers that may flood and would not be able to make it home at night. For those reasons, the County will keep some shelters open until Monday morning or later. These steps are taken to protect life and property. Hurricane Dennis may not be finished with us quite yet.
Long Beach weather
Marian reports:
"Happy to report very little rain or wind in north Long Beach. The clouds are moving above from north to south as the radar picture shows but we get only a drizzle. The streets are wet, but that's about it. Fast mostly dry clouds. Here in Long Beach the curfew is still in effect as far as I know. Glad it was no where near as bad as so many thought it was going to be."
Curfew still in effect in HarCo
Despite Hurricane Dennis making landfall in Florida, the curfew remains in effect in Harrison County. Officials don't want people on the roads until the tropical storm winds have passed. They'll wait until sustained winds drop below 40 mph in the wake of Dennis.
Officials also want to warn of river flooding with expected heavy rains as the storm passes.
Hattiesburg update
From capital editor Geoff Pender in Hattiesburg:
"The winds have started to pick up a little in the Hub City, but so far nothing too bad, and rainfall has so far been pretty moderate. A good bit of traffic is still moving around town here, although local law enforcement is urging people to stay tight unless absolutely necessary. A lot of Hattiesburg homes, and hotels are full of people from southward who fled the storm. So far, most everywhere appears to still have power."
Seabee base returns to normal Monday
Gulfport -- Naval Construction Battalion Center, Gulfport announces the return to normal operations on Monday. Military are to muster on station by noon unless otherwise directed by their chain of command. All civilian employees normally scheduled for work on Monday should report at their regular time and assigned place of duty. If you have sustained hurricane damage, notify your department head or supervisor.
In Ocean Springs
OCEAN SPRINGS -- Mayor Connie Moran said the city remains in a state-of-emergency and curfews are now in effect as Hurricane Dennis makes landfall. The curfew begins at dusk tonight and will remain in effect until Monday. Otherwise, no problems reported in the area.
Fire in Pascagoula
Margaret Baker has left the Jackson County Emergency Operations Center to report on a fire at a beachfront home in Pascagoula. More details will follow.
So far, so good in Jackson County
From reporter Margaret Baker:
PASCAGOULA -- Jackson County Civil Defense Director Butch Loper said he expects the county to receive a lot of rain and minimal storm winds of about 60 mph now that Hurricane Dennis has shifted to the east. "Right now, it looks like that's all we're going to get," he said Sunday afternoon. "Since this started, it's been relatively quiet." He said the curfew remains from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. pending further notice. Officials are urging residents to stay off the road and ordered mobile home dwellers and residents in low-lying areas to evacuate. A mandatory evacuation in Zone A remained Sunday, affecting mostly residents along the waterfront. The American Red Cross has opened more shelters today as others start to fill to capacity. Shelters are open at St. Martin High School, Vancleave High School, Moss Point High School, East Central High School in Hurley. Two other sites -- Vancleave Lower Elementary and Escatawpa Elementary in Jackson County, opened Sunday afternoon for any additional residents who need shelter. Also opened as shelters in the George County is George County Middle School and Benndale Elementary School. American Red Cross official Paige Roberts said some residents did ask for help to get to shelters Sunday morning.
Anywhere but here ... anywhere else but there
You have to feel just awful about what's happening to Pensacola. They've barely gotten off the mat from Ivan last year and Dennis hits them again. Your fellow Gulf Coastians are thinking about you.
El Maguey again
Last year, I enjoyed the signs on the boarded up windows at El Maguey Restaurant in Gulfport. There's another one for this storm, reading "Dennis go away -- Beans are not good for you."
That's certainly sage advise if you're going to be locked up with your family indoors all afternoon, but that's another story entirely.
Drive-about, Gulfport and Biloxi
Just got back from about a one-hour drive around with Sun Herald photographer David Purdy and a freelance photographer from Getty Images. We left downtown Gulfport and headed east about 11:15.
Folks were getting their last looks at the beach before the noon curfew set in. Boyfriend-girlfriend Freddie Steinwinder and Lindsey Storey were out carrying on a tradition of a visit to the water before a storm hits, walking along the water line, which is significantly higher than normal. They were walking across Highway 90 from San Beach RV Park (letter 'A' on this map), where there was still a lot of sand between the water and seawall. As they were enjoying a last bit of outdoors before heading in to wait out the storm, they lamented what was going to happen to the folks in Pensacola -- again. They'd been over there recently and said there are still boarded up buildings with "Go Away Ivan" spray-painted on them, too damaged to inhabit and not yet fixed back up. "There's still so much destruction," said Storey, 25, a recruiter on the Coast for Mississippi State University. "I hate it for them, the poor things." A thoroughly unscientific eyeball poll of houses along Highway 90 had us thinking that more houses and businesses were boarded up in Biloxi than Gulfport. We passed the newly installed Hard Rock Casino guitar and turned in at Biloxi Small Craft Harbor, which was appropriately deserted. We turned around at Casino Row, just after seeing the Grand's sign alternating between "We are closed" and "We're not gambling with Dennis," and came back, seeing an auto accident in the final stages of cleanup at Edgewater Village. One car had a smashed in hood with the airbags deployed, but the occupants were walking around, apparently unhurt. The weather could have been the cause, but it would be at the beginning stages of slippery roads rather than water over the roads.
Northrop Grumman update
Northrop Grumman has issued the following work schedule updates:
Pascagoula/Gulfport -- Designated storm restoration team members, including maintenance and transportation employees, will report to work on their regular shifts beginning with the first shift on Monday, July 11. Other employees needed to return the facilities to normal operations will be called in as needed. All office workers and production employees will report to work on their regular shifts beginning with the first shift on Tuesday. USS Forrest Sherman (DDG-98), which departed NGSS' Pascagoula Operations midday Friday for storm avoidance, continues underway in the western Gulf of Mexico. The ship will not return to Pascagoula until the ship channel reopens. We are in contact with personnel onboard ship, receiving periodic updates. New Orleans/Tallulah -- All employees will return to work on their regular shifts beginning with the first shift on Monday. Call (800) 995-4318, option 7, for additional work schedule information.
Jones for gambling
From Ron Latham:
"Hey Dennis, how soon before the casinos will reopen after the storm passes, my gambling itch need to be scratched, rather be gambling than sitting here waiting for the storm." Ron, glad to see you have things in perspective (ha ha). I imagine it will be a few hours after landfall before the gambling halls get opened back up. Read a book to pass the time, maybe. Try Super/System 2.
A Medillian checks in
The Sun Herald utilizes the Medill School of Journalism's Washington staff for our coverage of the nation's capital. Hye Jeong is one of our former correspondents and she checks in from Northern Virginia offering her assistance:
"I know you won't be glued to your computer during Dennis, so I'll just be thinking of all of you guys. Good luck." Thanks, Hye.
View from a pew
A note from Kate Magandy, city editor:
"Pews were about a third full at 7:30 a.m. Mass at St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church in Long Beach, despite a notice going out Saturday saying Catholics were excused from attending services this weekend. It was a nice touch at the end of Mass when, after the final blessing, Rev. Louis Lohan, pastor at the church, came up to the pulpit to thank everyone for coming, for their faith and to wish everyone safety as the storm approaches."
Sun Herald plans
With Hurricane Dennis likely to hit Pensacola or parts east, we're expecting South Mississippi to see lessening weather by this evening. We're planning on normal Sunday deadlines for Monday's paper and a return to normal business hours Monday.
For employees and carriers, any changes to our plans will be posted here, on sunherald.com and on the message at the phone number that you've been checking during the approach of Dennis.
Train derailment update
The Yazoo County Emergency Management Agency now reports four fatalities from train derailment. Residents in shelters in the area are fine.
Data buoy data
A story about the National Data Buoy Center in today's Sun Herald explained how the National Weather Service builds, deploys and monitors hurricane buoys to aid in information gathering throughout the tropics. Check out data from the Pensacola buoy for an eye-opening look at a hurricane.
Starting to rain in Gulfport
The beginnings of the squall lines are hitting here in downtown Gulfport. Nothing too bad, but it's finally starting to get wet out there.
Newfoundland checking in
From Stephanie Derible way up north:
"Hi, I have relatives who live on Commission Road and Saratoga in Long Beach. Are they in an evacuation zone? Even us Newfoundlanders watch to see what's happening to our American cousins. Take care." Saratoga is completely in Zone B, so they are not in a required evacuation zone in Long Beach. Thanks for the e-mail.
Harrison County: Curfew at noon
The Harrison County Board of Supervisors and the cities of Biloxi, D'Iberville, Gulfport, Long Beach and Pass Christian, on recommendation of the county emergency management agency, have instituted a countywide curfew starting at noon Sunday.
The curfew will remain in effect until hazardous conditions have subsided and damage control is manageable. Noon is when Harrison County is expected to begin suffering tropical storm force winds. In the interest of community safety from Hurricane Dennis, officials strongly urge area churches to conclude morning services before noon, so that church members can reach their homes or other destinations before the curfew goes into effect. Those who desire an exemption from the curfew must present identification and credentials when stopped by law enforcement. Police and sheriff deputies will make exceptions to the curfew for public safety staff, medical personnel, utility workers and others who are traveling for work of a public service nature. The curfew applies to all cities and towns as well as to unincorporated areas.
Train derailment upstate
Mississippi Emergency Management Agency reports from Jackson that two Canadian National Railroad freight trains collided in Yazoo County, near Anding which is just northeast of Bentonia, about 200 miles north of Gulfport. At least one person died.
An unknown number of railcars derailed and at least one railcar leaking vegetable oil caught fire. The fire has been extinguished. One train had 117 cars and the second train had 137 cars. Rescue teams are searching the wreckage to account for all members of the train crew. The Canadian National Railroad hazardous material team and the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality are on scene. Yazoo County emergency management officials are also on scene to help evacuate residents in the immediate vicinity of the derailment.
Two more shelters in Harrison County
Two more hurricane shelters will be open by 8:30 this morning in Harrison County, at Saucier Elementary School and Lizana Elementary School.
Saucier Elementary is at 24052 First Street in Saucier. Lizana Elementary is at 15341 Lizana School Road in west Harrison County.
Another casino question
Susan Durham has a question:
"My family has recently moved to the area and is about to experience our first hurricane:Dennis. I am concerned on the level of responsibility of local businesses, especially one that I keep seeing on the ticker, Casino Magic of Bay St. Louis. If I read the information correctly, they are in the declared manditory evacuation area for that county, and yet insist that they are going to be staying open. Isn't that dangerous, for both the employees who work there and people (residents and tourists) who have been using local businesses as a guide of range of safety for this storm? If you are able to address this subject today at some point, I along with several others, would find it of newsworthy interest." I touched on that a little bit late last night with a report from the Mississippi Gaming Commission folks. They were in communications with the casinos over there just about continuously, and said they could have them closed down within three hours from making the decision. Being in Bay St. Louis, I think Casino Magic is under a voluntary evacuation order from the city and not the one mandated by the county. As I said in another post, it winds up being a judgement call and as the storm continues to track more toward Florida it would appear they've judged well this time, although we're not out of the woods just yet.
Hancock County status
Hancock County ordered a mandatory evacuation of low-lying and flood prone areas last night, as well as for mobile homes. The cities of Waveland and Bay St. Louis have issued voluntary evacuation notices.
There is one shelter open there located at Hancock North Central on Highway 603. There are approximately 70 people there. Contrary to reports elsewhere, the Hancock County Emergency Management Agency is full staffed. They also asked that we get the evacuation information out there correctly. Consider it done.
From the Island
Carlos Medina:
"Hi, My parents relocated from Long Island, N.Y. to retire in Gulfport in 2001. They love it down there and are determined to return after Dennis regardless of what occurs. I've been up since 6 a.m. watching CNN, The Weather Channel and monitoring the blogs and news on the web. Just wanted to let everyone know that all our thoughts and prayers are with you. I hope that everyone will be kept safe from this hurricane." From your lips to God's ears...
Cruisers send well wishes
From Lewis and Marcia Martin from St. Louis (Missouri, not Bay St. Louis):
"We were in Gulfport for Crusin' The Coast last year. Just want you to know that we, like so many others are holding you in our thoughts and prayers." Thanks.
Red Cross shelters in Harrison County
An update on numbers in Red Cross shelters in the county:
-- Central Elementary: 144 -- Harrison Central Elementary: 189 -- Harrison Central High School: 132 -- North Bay Elementary: 232 -- North Woolmarket: 25
Jackson County update
Robert Martinez at the Jackson County Emergency Operations Center says that the mandatory evacuation order remains in effect for Zone A, with folks in other areas being urged to evacuate as well. He said the biggest news this morning on the shelter front was word that some churches in George County (one county inland north of Jackson, the easternmost of the three coastal counties in Mississippi) are opening. They aren't Red Cross operated, but they are inland and welcomed contributions to the cause.
Martinez said they expected winds to pick up there around 10 a.m. with landfall the middle of the afternoon. The curfew will go back into effect at 10 p.m. tonight.
New mayor's first dance
New Gulfport mayor Brent Warr is getting a new perspective on things with his first hurricane in office.
"It's definitely different from every experience I've ever had in a hurricane," said Warr, who took office less than a month ago. "It's pretty impressive really. This system they have here is pretty good. The guys who are running it absolutely know what they are doing." He said the city had about 1,000 people in shelters, with room for six times that amount. Evacuation routes appear to be in good shape, too. Warr is relying on the accumulated experience of his public safety officials and multitude of different kinds of help that are poised to help once the storm hits. "It’s kind of what you’d expect it to be looking at it from the outside now on the inside," he said. "It's like that. This is not the first dance." Having the power of an elected office doesn't change some things, though. Warr's still at the mercy of Mother Nature, and he's watching with interest -- and the usual distressing lack of control. "We're lucky," he said, looking to a wooden picture frame to tap with his next statement. "If this thing clicks on like it just did, a little more to the north, we'll dodge a bullet."
A question from Long Beach
"Where is zone A? I am in Long Beach 2 blocks off the beach."
Most everywhere two blocks from the beach along the Coast is Zone A. There are some exceptions, and you can check here to look at the map of Long Beach. Good luck with whatever decision you make. If you choose to evacuate, you need to do it soon before the bad weather gets here.
Is it worth it?
Joyce Normando from a place that's cold e-mails:
"I was planning on moving to your area this year. My friends think I am crazy even with 150 inches of snow last year. Is it worth it?" Every place has something or another to deal with, whether it's the cold, white stuff or earthquakes or tornados or nor'easters. There's a lot of great stuff and even more great people here, so it's not a bad place on balance.
Thailand, if you please
Julian and June Brunt are having a tough time with this storm, even if they aren't necessarily in the neighborhood:
"This is the worst sorm for me yet; I'am about 65 miles South of the border with Burma, in Northern Thailand. The only thing I can do is walk over to the one PC internet cafe as often as possible! Best of Luck to You All." Thanks.
What should I listen to?
Michele Lawrence e-mails:
"In the event that power is lost what is the recommended radio station for accurate and up to date information on Dennis?" The big flamethrower of a station in the area is WWL-870 AM. It's 50,000 watts and can be heard everywhere. Depending on what county you're in, you'll have different options. For instance, WTNI-1640 AM is a news-talk station in Harrison County.
From Oregon
Teri Tomlinson, a soon-to-be resident, e-mails:
"just wanted to let you all know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. i am a follower of your newspaper and think you are all fabulous. my name is Teri Tomlinson.... i will be moving there probably in the next few months if i can arrange it. please stay safe and know that you are cared for and being prayed for by a whole casino here in Oregon. i work at Chinook Winds the best casino on the Oregon coast and we are all praying for you. in our thoughts...you are not alone.......stay safe...." Thanks, Teri.
Denial is not just a river in Egypt
Amy sends in the following question:
"I have family that live in Ocean Springs and Biloxi, I am worried about them cause they say they will only have light some rain and a little wind and so they chose to stay at home. From what I am hearing on TV and reading on the computer it is still not 100 percent to where Dennis is going. So have the residents of the costal towns in Mississippi been told that they are out of harm's way?" I'm not sure who your family down here is listening to, but they should stop. Anybody who thinks the Mississippi Gulf Coast will only get light rain and a little wind is, in all likelyhood, living in denial. At the last update (midnight CT) Dennis had hurricane-force winds out to 40 miles from the eye, with tropical storm winds up to 230 miles away. If it was to hit in Mobile, for instance, New Orleans and points 60-or-so miles west would receive tropical storm winds. Sounds like your folks are listening to someone hoping that what happened with Ivan last year (sudden jog to the east before landfall coupled with a collapse of the western half of the storm wall) will happen again. It would be an act of merciful providence for that to happen to two big storms like these in a row, if you ask me. I'm not predicting it, but what happens if the jog is to the west this time? Don't mean to scare you, Amy, but them's the facts as I see things. I'm not predict certain destruction, but I'll be willing to bet this won't be a cakewalk.
Quarles Elementary shelter closing
City officials in Long Beach are closing their shelter at Quarles Elementary School because it's in an evacuation area. The people who are staying there are being moved to Harrison Central Elementary in North Gulfport.
The weather outside ...
... is still not very frightful at the moment. There's still no rain in downtown Gulfport and it's cooled down just a bit. There's still just a hint of a breeze, but all that figures to change any hour now.
Friends offer all kinds of things, pardner
Didn't get around to posting this earlier, but I didn't find out about it until a little before midnight. It's an interesting offer, one that's probably hard to take advantage of now. Somebody in Forest, Miss., says they have space to board 200 horses for people who are evacuating. Forest is located between Jackson and Meridian.
If you really need to take advantage of this offer, e-mail us at dennis@sunherald.com. Giddyup.
Evacuation question
From Marian in Long Beach:
"Thank you for the clarification on Long Beach Zone B. I was asleep when someone from Civil Defense, I think, woke me with the odd news that it was mandatory I evacuate. Glad to know my Zone B is not included. But now I'm awake and can't get back to sleep. I don't remember being called to evacuate for Fredrick or Elena or Georges or any other hurricane in our neighborhood until last year when someone decided everyone south of I-10 had to leave for Ivan. That was mandatory too. What is going on? Tropical storm winds are expected. There was no mandatory evacuation for Tropical Storm Cindy." It's my impression of things here that they are erring on the side of caution remembering what happened with Ivan last year. We were about to get smacked in the mouth when it suddenly took a jog to the east, smacking Pensacola and Mobile in the mouth. Substitute west for east and it could be bad here. The phone calls are made now because it's easy to do. (That's the physical act of calling, not the decision-making process.) That was an automated message that went out to something like 70,000 homes. As far as why the evacuations are happening now, that's a judgement decision made by the Harrison County Board of Supervisors, who are advised by their Emergency Management Agency. You can ask them at the next board meeting.
Here they come ...
Now we're getting some more from the outsiders. This is the first Sun Herald alum to check in. Last year, we had a few that sent their best wishes. From Kevin Hecteman, who now lives in Stockton, Calif.:
"Y'know, we have to stop meeting like this... Even though I left the Gulf Coast three years ago this month (alrwady?), I still follow the news there, especially when a hurricane takes aim at the area. In some ways, these things are scarier than the earthquakes I grew up with here. I hope all is well with you and yours and that everyone makes it." Thanks, Kevin.
First e-mail from outsiders
We haven't had a lot of e-mail from the public yet, but here's our first one from out-of-state. It comes from Patsy Arms:
"I live in Kentucky,but I have most of my family living in Pascagoula and I just wanted to tell you that you did a great job last year on Ivan. I kept up with it all through you and it helped keep me calm.lol Thanks again for the good work. Maybe I can keep calm through Dennis also with your help." Thanks, and we'll do our best.
NOAA zone map problems (updated)
The NOAA site that allows you to plug in an address and determine what hurricane evacuation zone you're in is overloading. You can download the PDFs of four different versions of these maps on the front page (right-hand column near the top) of the county Web site or on this page at the site.
If you have a BellSouth phone book, you also have the map in the front information section. Saturday, July 09, 2005
Hancock County casinos
People are still giving their money away ... I mean gambling at casinos in Hancock County. The Mississippi Gaming Commission has been talking with city and county officials there and decided to keep them open for the time being. MGC Director of Enforcement Rich Randal said it will only take 2-3 hours to shut them down should that decision be made.
View from a shelter
Just got back from a late-night venture from the Harrison County Courthouse. I went with a couple of out-of-town reporters around the corner to Gulfport Central Elementary School to see what was happening there. Since the earlier post noting numbers in Red Cross shelters, they'd nearly doubled with 80 people as of 10:15 p.m.
People had pretty much filled in along each wall down the main hallway all the way to the back of the school. Blankets and sleeping bags were the prefered method of marking off space. Some brought air mattresses, including a monstrosity that looked like it could sleep a quarter of the people there. Kids cuddled together, as did couples, trying to buy a fitful sleep while other kids ran up and down the fully illuminated hall. On one blanket, a mother slept to the outside of her kids, who napped lying down like they were standing one atop each other, nearly as tall as her against the wall. A man sat in a lawn chair wearing a "No Problem" T-shirt next to his wife. They'd been booted out of a casino while celebrating their 69th wedding anniversary and had been unable to get on a flight, dropped off by the casino to wait it out there. Another woman sat near an oxygen tank. A worker at the front signed newcomers in and played gatekeeper with the Sun Chips and bottled water, too. She was hoping the storm passed to the east of us, upset with the realization she had to wish ill will on others for her own safety. The humanity stretched back to the back of the school, and had started going down one wing of a hallway there. The other halls were blocked off by yellow police tape. The smell of that humanity mixed with a hint of summer touch-up painting in the school.
Another Zone Map location
You can also access the Harrison County evacuation maps from the front page of county's Web site. Look at the top on the right side.
Revised Zone B evacuation in Long Beach
According to the City of Long Beach and Harrison County Emergency Management officials, if you are a resident of Long Beach and you live in Zone B, south of the railroad tracks, you are under a mandatory evacuation and should evacuate immediately. If you reside in a part of Zone B that is NOT in a flood prone area, you do not have to evacuate.
Curfew in Jackson County
Jackson County will also activate a curfew from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. until further notice.
Drawbridge closings
According to the Harrison County Bridge Department, the Bayou Potage Bridge located north of Pass Christian is officially closed to marine traffic.
The CSX railroad bridges between Pass Christian and Bay St. Louis and between Biloxi and Ocean Springs, closed to boat traffic earlier this evening.
Rooms near Philadelphia
The folks at Pearl River Resort in Choctaw, near Philadelphia, Miss, say they have rooms available there for Sunday and Monday nights. Call (866) 447-3275 for reservations.
This information is posted with reminder of the warnings below about staying in east central Mississippi, which is expected to get a big shot of Dennis after it continues northwest after landfall.
Red Cross Shelters getting some business
It's not a lot of folks, but some are showing up to the Red Cross-operated shelters in Harrison County. Here's a breakdown at their four currently opened shelters (capacity in parentheses):
-- Gulfport Central Elementary: 43 (1,085). -- Harrison Central Elementary in North Gulfport: 16 (455). -- North Bay Elementary in Biloxi: 97 (635). -- North Woolmarket in Harrison Central: 2 (1,200). Rafe Gratz, a volunteer manning the Red Cross' shelter operations station in the Harrison County Emergency Operations Center, said that additional buses had just arrived at Harrison Central and North Bay elementary schools.
Jackson County evacuation order status
Jackson County has increased its evacuation orders, making it mandatory in Zone A and for mobile homes. They are highly suggesting evacuations in Zones B and C.
Harrison County evacuation details
The Harrison County Board of Supervisors, worried about a greater threat from Hurricane Dennis, has ordered a mandatory evacuation of Zones A and B effective at 8 p.m. They are also strongly recommending voluntary evacuations of Zone C.
A mandatory evacuation order is a legal directive to leave a designated area and seek shelter elsewhere. Emergency management officials said following the mandatory order is a matter of life or death. Failing to evacuate puts lives at grave risk. Residents who stay during the storm may at times have no chance of medical, police or fire rescue. Residents should have reached their destinations outside their zones by 6:00 am Sunday, when high winds will start hitting the county. Shelters in Harrison County are the last resort. Officials urged residents to travel west. Residents who go north should get to Jackson and then go west on I-20. Do not go into Mississippi's eastern counties on or near I-20, as they will suffer deadly winds and heavy rain. Residents can pinpoint if they live in Zone A at the website for the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). At this on-line evacuation zone address locator, the user should click "Mississippi" and enter his or her address. If the address is in Zone A, residents must evacuate. Maps are also included in the information section at the front of BellSouth phone books.
Harrison County increases evacuation order
Full details will follow shortly, but the Harrison County Board of Supervisors has ordered a mandatory evacuation for Zone B and strongly suggests residents in Zone C evacuate.
Residents can pinpoint which zone they live in at the website for the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). At this on-line evacuation zone address locator, the user should click "Mississippi" and enter his or her address. If the address is in Zone A and B, residents must evacuate and those in Zone C are strongly recommended to leave. Maps are also included in the information section at the front of BellSouth phone books. Again, more details to follow ...
Rooms in Jackson
The Cabot Lodge Jackson North says it has rooms available for those fleeing the storm. Call (800) 342-2268 or (601) 957-0757 for more information.
Casino employees
With the closing of casinos in Harrison County, employees with questions should contact their supervisors at work. They should not call the Harrison County Emergency Management Agency or Emergency Operations Center.
Casino update
In Harrison County, the public is being escorted from casinos and all employees are supposed to be gone by midnight tonight. The Mississippi Gaming Commission is still evaluating the status of casinos in Hancock County.
Weather observation -- Gulfport
Stepping out into the parking lot at the Harrison County Courthouse in downtown Gulfport, some observations:
-- It's still hot. -- There isn't much wind yet. -- Skies are darkening to the east, but it's still beautiful here.
Tomorrow's Sun Herald
Coming in tomorrow's Sun Herald (which can also be read at sunherald.com):
-- Casino closings. -- Cell phone availability during and after the storm. -- Stennis Space Center's contribution to hurricane monitoring. And more...
No curfews in Harrison County
Harrison County Emergency Management officials have elaborated on the mandatory evacuation order for Zone A issued at 4:00 pm today.
-- Owners of businesses in Zone A are to complete hurricane preparations on their property by 6:00 a.m. Sunday. -- Residents of Zone A should have reached their destination out of the area by 6:00 a.m. -- Officials know some business owners will work to prepare their property into the evening, so no curfew is set for any part of Harrison County tonight. A curfew may be established later and, if one is set, it will be widely publicized. Harrison County officials want to be sure there is no confusion on curfews.
Winn-Dixies closing
Winn-Dixie announced the closing later tonight of several of its stores in the area:
-- In Bay St. Louis at the Marketown Shopping Center, the WD will close at 8 p.m. -- In Biloxi at the Popp's Ferry Shopping Center, the WD will close at its normal time Saturday. -- In Pass Christian at Pass Christian Village, the WD will close at 8 p.m. -- In Ocean Springs at the Springs Plaza, the WD will close at 8 p.m. -- In Long Beach at Long Beach Village, the WD will close at its normal time. -- In Gulfport at Orange Grove Shopping Center, the WD will close at its normal time. -- D'Iberville at the Kmart Shopping Center, the WD will close at 8 p.m. The stores will reopen as soon as possible, and Winn-Dixie hopes that's on Monday.
Sun Herald plans
Our newspaper will go to press an hour early tonight (Saturday) so we can get our carriers back into safety before the brunt of Dennis hits. We plan to follow normal deadlines on Sunday night, but that could change based on what the storm brings.
We'll try to keep you up to date as much as we can. Sun Herald employees should continue checking the previously released phone number for updates. Employees scheduled to work Sunday afternoon and evening are invited to bring their immediate families with you when you report to work. The Sun Herald building is not a public shelter, so only immediate family members will be admitted. No pets will be admitted.
Mandatory evacuation applies to HarCo casinos
Otis Smith e-mailed a question about the casinos, asking who makes the decision about shutting down casinos. Normally, the Mississippi Gaming Commission does that, but in this case it appears the mandatory evacuation of Zone A in Harrison County trumps that jurisdiction. The order says that evacuations and preparations should be complete by 6 a.m. Sunday.
We're trying to talk to the Mississippi Gaming Commission representative at the Harrison County Emergency Operations Center, but he's had a cell phone glued to his ear for the past few minutes. Thanks for the question, Otis.
News from USM in Hattiesburg
Classes at the University of Southern Mississippi's Hattiesburg campus have been cancelled for Monday in anticipation of Hurricane Dennis' scheduled landfall. Only essential personnel are required to report to work on Monday. Classes will resume Tuesday.
Southern Miss-Gulf Coast operations will be closed Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Classes are tentatively scheduled to resume Tuesday. "Preview," the orientation session for new and transfer students at Southern Miss, will proceed on the Hattiesburg campus as scheduled Saturday. However, students and parents unable to attend can reschedule for either of two additional sessions on July 14 and July 23. More information can be found at USM's Web site or by calling (601) 266-4494 for Hattiesburg information or (228) 865-4500 for Gulf Coast information. For more information about "Preview" or to reschedule for a later date, contact the office of First Year Experience at (601) 266-6405 or e-mail Wynde Fitts at wynde.fitts@usm.edu.
Cell phone hints
Cellular sends this list of hints for cell phone users:
-- Program all emergency contact numbers into your wireless phone. Store numbers for the police department, fire station, hospital, as well as your family members so you don't have to think about it during and after an emergency. -- Have a family communications plan in place. Designate someone out of the area as a central contact, and make certain all family members know who to contact if they become separated. -- Keep your wireless phone batteries charged at all times. Use your car charger to charge your wireless phone when power is out, or pick up a disposable battery that will give you an hour of talk time without any charging. -- Keep your wireless phone dry and protected. The biggest threat from hurricanes is water versus wind damage so keep your equipment safe from the elements by storing it in a plastic sandwich or freezer bag. -- Forward your home number to your wireless number in the event of an evacuation. Since call forwarding is based out of the telephone central office, you will get incoming calls from your landline phone, even if your local telephone service is disrupted at your home. In the unlikely event the central office is isolated, call forwarding may not work. Here are some more tips to maximize your service during and after a storm: -- Try text messaging, or SMS (Short Messaging Service). Most wireless phones today are text messaging capable, and often times during an emergency situation such as a hurricane, text messages will go through quicker than voice calls. More importantly, using text messaging helps free up the voice lines for emergency officials. -- Use a landline phone if it is available. In many instances, landline service may still be available in your area so this still may be an option. -- Keep non-emergency calls to a minimum. Remember to limit your calls to the most important ones. Chances are that if there is severe weather, many people will be attempting to place wireless calls to loved ones, friends and business associates. If the landline phones are not working, this probability increases. -- Wait 10 seconds before redialing a call. On many wireless phones, to redial a number, you simply push “send” after you’ve ended a call to redial the previous number. If you do this too quickly, the data from the phone to the cell sites does not have enough time to clear before you’ve resent the same data and may contribute to network congestion. -- Use your wireless phone to access weather information. Many homes lose power during severe weather. If you have a wireless phone that provides access to the Internet, you can watch the Weather Channel through Cingular’s Mobi-TV service or through My-Cast Weather.
Know your zone
For folks trying to figure out what evacuation zone they are in, they can also look in their BellSouth phone books. The maps are in the front informational section.
No mandatory evacuation in Jackson County
According to Robert Martinez in the Jackson County Emergency Management Agency, their county is not ordering mandatory evacuations. They continue to urge people in low-lying and flood-prone areas to seek shelter in safe places.
MGCCC cancels classes through Monday
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College is canceling all classes on Sunday and Monday in advance of Hurricane Dennis to allow students and staff time to prepare their homes and families for severe weather.
The resumption of college activities will be officially announced on the college's website. Students and employees can now call the college's toll-free phone number at (866) 735-1122 for periodic college updates.
Mandatory evacuation ordered in Harrison County
Harrison County Board of Supervisors president Bobby Eleuterius has ordered a mandatory evacuation of Zone A plus any buildings countywide that cannot withstand winds of 80 mpg, effective at 4 p.m.
A mandatory evacuation is a legal order to all people in affected areas, directing them to leave those locales and seek shelter elsewhere. Emergency management director John Edwards said, "I cannot overstate the urgency of abiding with this order. Failing to evacuate puts lives at grave risk. Remember, if you stay, conditions may get so bad you have no chance of medical, police or fire rescue." Edwards said residents should leave "absolutely no later than 6:00 am on Sunday, which is when we expect high winds to begin to strike us." He added, "Right now is the time to exercise your disaster plan and leave the area. Go west. However, if you go north, get to Jackson and then go west on I-20. Shelters in Harrison County are your last resort. Tune to public radio stations for information such as shelter locations. The stations include 90.3 FM in Biloxi, 91.3 in Jackson and 88.9 FM in Bude for the southwestern part of Mississippi." Edwards said residents can pinpoint if they live in Zone A at the website for the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). At this on-line evacuation zone address locator, the user should click "Mississippi" and enter his or her address. If the address is in Zone A, residents must evacuate.
Grocery stores
There are reports of grocery stores being out of food, but features editor Scott Hawkins had a different experience:
"A Saturday afternoon trip to the grocery store was not as daunting as I thought it would be. Sure, there was a crowd, but the store had an ample supply of workers to keep the checkout lines moving. Popular items on the conveyer belts: batteries, first-aid supplies, non-perishables such as bread, tuna, crackers, chips, peanut butter, beef jerky, power bars and, of course, bottled water, and lots of beer."
Folks upstate get ready, too
Mississippi Emergency Management officials are urging residents in north and central Mississippi to begin preparations for Hurricane Dennis. Forecasters predict the strong possibility of damaging winds (winds more than 50 mph), tornadoes, and flooding rains of 4 to 8 inches in counties along and north of Interstate 20 once the storm makes landfall and continues to track to the northwest Sunday night and Monday.
Residents living in mobile homes should make plans to seek other shelter and make evacuation plans if necessary. For information on shelters go to the MEMA website.
Biloxi mayor repeats warning, opens two shelters
A.J. Holloway reiterated his recommendation that residents evacuate low-lying areas of city, stressing the increased importance with some forecasts suggesting Hurricane Dennis may hit closer to Biloxi than originally predicted.
"People need to appreciate the severity of this storm,” Holloway said. “It’s going to be a significant threat to our city, and it’s not to be underestimated." He ordered that storm shelters at Gorenflo Elementary School on Lameuse Street and North Bay Elementary School off Popp's Ferry Road be opened at noon. Here is another listing of shelters open in the area.
Northrop Grumman update
Northrop Grumman Ship Systems (which operates what used to be called Ingalls Shipyard) has implemented its Heavy Weather Plan at its Mississippi and Louisiana facilities. Ships have been secured with additional mooring lines, moved, turned and/or ballasted at docks. Cranes, portable buildings, vehicles and other equipment have also been secured in place or removed.
USS Forrest Sherman (DDG-98) left Friday to steam out the storm in the western Gulf of Mexico. Definitive information on work schedules will be posted on the corporate information line by noon on Sunday. Call (800) 995-4318 – Option 7, for work schedule information.
Mississippi Power tips
Mississippi Power says work crews from around the country are already starting to pre-position themselves to get to work when Dennis finishes its dastardly work. Here are tips for the storm from those soon-to-be hard-working folks:
-- Stay away from all downed lines. Warn others to do the same and contact Mississippi Power or a local law enforcement agency. -- Wait a reasonable time before calling Mississippi Power if your entire neighborhood is without power. Extra calls jam switchboards and slow repairs. -- Keep freezer doors closed and sealed. Well-filled freezers keep most foods frozen two to three days if the door is kept closed. -- Do not connect portable generators to your household electrical wiring. This can cause serious injury to you and to electric company employees working on the lines in your neighborhood. Connect only essential appliances - such as freezers and refrigerators - directly to the generator. -- If there is damage to your meter box or the pole on top of your meter box, you must first have an electrician make repairs before Mississippi Power can restore your service. -- If there is flooding in your home or business, Mississippi Power may be unable to restore electric service until the building is inspected by city or county code officials. -- Charge cell phones, pagers and other electronic devices before the storm hits. -- Wash all your clothes and dishes. -- Please be patient. Crews restoring service will work as fast as safety allows. Before neighborhood lines can be restored, Mississippi Power crews must first repair substations and larger lines that bring power to neighborhoods.
Harrison County shelters open
Here is a list of public shelters opening today:
At noon -- Harrison Central Elementary School, 15451 Dedeaux Road, Gulfport;-- Gulfport Central Elementary School, 1043 Pass Road, Gulfport; -- North Woolmarket Elementary School, 16237 Old Woolmarket Road, Gulfport; -- Gorenflo Elementary School, 260 Howard Avenue, Biloxi. At 1:00 p.m. -- North Bay Elementary School, 1825 Popp’s Ferry Road, Biloxi;At 4:00 p.m. -- Quarles Elementary School, 111 Quarles Street, Long Beach; and-- Good Deeds Community Center, 15101 Madison Street, Gulfport. Bring these items to the shelter: -- Ready-to-eat food for three days; -- Bottled water (one gallon per person for three days); -- Medications; -- Baby food, diapers and other infant needs; -- Pillows and blankets; -- Battery-powered TV or radio; -- Books, magazines, board games and toys. Pets, alcohol and firearms are not allowed at shelters.
Along those same lines
The irony of what's on TNT right now is not lost on me. "Gone With the Wind" is being show in all it Technicolor glory.
You'd never know it
Jim Butler sends in this report, which perfectly highlights what I was thinking about last night driving over to Bay St. Louis and back for a friend's birthday party. For having a big storm out there, it sure is pretty around here right now...
"Golf course crowded this a.m. Who would think a storm even out there? Clear, hot July day. Perfect for most any Gulf Coast activity. Birds singing, butterflies flitting. Wonderful morning."
30+ shelters now open
More than 30 shelters are open in the state according to the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency.
Jackson, Hancock counties voluntary evacuations
Jackson and Hancock counties are asking residents who live in low-lying areas or mobile homes to evacuate. Jackson County will also activate a curfew from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. until further notice.
Sandbags still available in Gulfport
Sandbags and plenty of sand are still available at the Harrison County work center on Lorraine Road, just north of the drawbridge, in Gulfport.
-- reported by James Edwards Bates
Traffic bogging down on I-10 near Canal Road
Westbound traffic is reportedly beginning to bog down in Gulfport, including a wreck requiring extrication at mile marker 32 at 10:25 a.m.
-- reported by James Edwards Bates
Voluntary evacuation for Harrison County low-lying areas
The Harrison County Emergency Management Agency is strongly urging voluntary evacuations of flood-prone and low-lying areas, as well as mobile homes and any structure that can't withstand 50 mph winds. Director John Edwards is also recommending boat owners relocate their vessels from beachfront harbors to safe locations.
Residence can pinpoint if they live in areas that need to be evacuated online. Click on "Mississippi" then enter the address. If the address is in Zone A, residents should evacuate. Gaming Commission officials said this action doesn't mean casinos should close and that they will remain open until further notice.
Biloxi info line
Biloxi has set up a taped message accessible at 435-6235 with answers to frequently asked questions about storm preparations there. There is also detailed information at the Web site and e-mail advisories are also available.
Biloxi Police Chief Bruce Dunagan asks that calls to police and fire dispatchers be limited to emergency situations.
Cedar Lake Bridge lone opening
For area boaters, authorities advise Cedar Lake Bridge will be open about 9 a.m. Saturday for 30 minutes to boat traffic, the only opening this weekend.
Friday, July 08, 2005
Gas woes
From features editor Scott Hawkins:
"I went to get gas this afternoon at a gas station on Pass Road in Gulfport, and the debit card readers at the pumps were not working, so I went to another one down the road, at which they had signs on every pump, stating the station was 'Prepay Only, no credit cards at the pump.' If that is a deliberate ploy to avoid drive offs, it could potentially cause long lines at the check out counter. Beware."
Harrison County planning shelters
Harrison County officials are coordinating with the Red Cross and other agencies on plans for opening public shelters. Emergency management director John Edwards will announce the location of any required shelters Saturday.
Get your boats out of Biloxi harbors
Mayor A.J. Holloway ordered a mandatory evacuation of boats from the harbors near downtown and at Point Cadet.
"At this point, I'm saying that this is now a mandatory evacuation of these vessels," Holloway said, "and they need to get them moved before the winds reach 34 mph, which is when the areas bridges will be locked down for the duration of the storm."
Biloxi mayor suggests some residents leave now
Mayor A.J. Holloway suggested today that residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas of Biloxi consider evacuating now.
"I believe it's too early at this point for weather forecasters to make credible predictions about where this storm will make landfall and when we'll start seeing winds and tides start to build," Holloway said Friday afternoon after being briefed on storm preparations.
No evacuations mandated yet
There are no mandatory or voluntary evacuations in Harrison or Jackson counties. Officials are waiting until Saturday to see what the storm is doing. Officials in Hancock County are recommending evacuation for people who live in low-lying areas and mobile homes.
Catholic Church excuses you from services
The Diocese of Biloxi has told its pastors they are free to cancel masses this weekend. Furthermore, Catholics are not expected to attend mass this weekend. "All are urged to protect themselves and their loved ones," the diocese said in a release.
Stories coming in tomorrow's Sun Herald
Saturday's Sun Herald will be chock full of information you need to finish preparations for Hurricane Dennis. Here's a look at what you can find in the paper or at sunherald.com:
-- Hotels upstate are filling up quickly. -- Emergency officials dispense their one best piece of advice. -- What you should do with your pet during the storm. -- People are getting their cars topped off with gas in preparations and the state Attorney General's Office is already receiving many complaints about price gouging. -- What to do if you suspect price gouging. -- A look at evacuation news. -- Lists of supplies needed, to-do items and shelters.
MEMA on evacuation routes
There have been no mandatory or voluntary evacuations ordered for Mississippi, but traffic is picking up headed north already. It's up 77 percent on Interstate 10 westbound out of Alabama and up 58 percent on U.S. 49 northbound near Wiggins. Along Interstate 55 at the Louisiana-Mississippi state line, there's 54 percent more traffic northbound and its doubled on U.S. 98 westbound at the Alabama-Mississippi line.
The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency also announced that seven shelters upstate will be open tonight and Saturday: -- West Point High School, North Campus (852 S. Eshman Ave.) -- Emanuel Baptist Church, Grenada (Commerce Street) -- First Christian Church, Tupelo (1590 McCullough Blvd.) -- The Wood Institute, Mathiston (intersection of Mississippi 82 and 15) -- Trinity Presbyterian Church, Meridian (4223 Poplar Springs Dr.) -- Poplar Springs Baptist Church, Meridian (4032 Poplar Springs Dr.) -- First Methodist Church, Starkville (200 Lampkin)
States of emergency
All five municipalities in the Harrison County declared states of emergency today as preparations for Hurricane Dennis continue to ratchet up. The county and state of Mississippi had earlier made similar declarations.
The storm is expected to make landfall somewhere along the Central Gulf Coast Sunday evening.
Getting started
As much as we hate to do it, the Sun Herald is firing up its hurricane blog as Dennis churns its way across with South Mississippi still lying within the dreaded "Cone of Uncertainty."
As we did with Eye on Ivan, we encourage any and all participation from those of you reading this blog. If you like to contribute a tip, a story or a question, feel free to e-mail us (dennis@sunherald.com). We'll use this space to try to keep you up to date, point you in the direction of cool and useful information on the Web and keep you abreast of what's going on in South Mississippi. Don Hammack The Bloginator
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