This week is National Hurricane Preparedness Week and the Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) reminds motorists to begin preparations now as Atlantic Hurricane Season begins on June 1. 

“The department is constantly evolving our severe weather readiness plans and resources, including those in place for hurricane events," said Emily Fish, Georgia DOT's Assistant State Maintenance Engineer. "Over the past six years, we've standardized preparedness and response plans, and upgraded technology to ensure our readiness before, during and after storms to ensure we are doing everything possible to keep Georgians safe."

When a hurricane is forecasted to impact Georgia, the Georgia DOT begins coordination efforts with local, state and federal partners to strategize a response plan seven to 10 days ahead of the predicted storm. Approximately five days before a hurricane makes landfall, Georgia DOT is mobilizing hundreds of employees and readying equipment. The department and its staff begin 24/7 emergency operations three days out from the storm, and begin interstate contraflow operations two days before the storm hits all in an effort to keep Georgians safe during evacuations. To read more about how Georgia DOT prepares for and mitigates clean up following a hurricane, check out our recent blog The State of Georgia DOT’s Hurricane Plan is Resilient.

In the event of an evacuation, message boards will be setup to alert motorists about exit ramp closures/openings. Signs will alert the public to selected FM radio stations for weather and traffic updates. If necessary, Georgia DOT HEROs and CHAMPs will patrol the interstates to assist motorists and respond quickly to accidents and disabled vehicles.