Jackson Free Press

Mayor Harvey Johnson, Jr. declared a state of emergency for the City of Jackson today as Tropical Storm Isaac continues to move into the Jackson area. The storm will continue into Thursday and is expected to dump 6-8 inches of rain. Some tornados could occur as a result of this storm through the night.

Public Works and Parks and Recreation crews will be mobilizing to address downed trees and limbs in city streets and public rights of way. Please note that trees and limbs cannot be immediately cleared if there are downed power lines intermingled with them or nearby.

Flash flooding could occur as a result of the large amounts of rainfall expected and some city streets in low lying areas could be inundated with water. Motorists are urged to call 3-1-1 to report any streets inundated and to take caution to avoid driving through rushing water on city streets.

3-1-1

The City of Jackson is extending the hours for the 3-1-1 call center beginning Wednesday until 11 p.m. Residents are encouraged to call 3-1-1 to report downed trees, flooding issues and any other NON-EMERGENCY requests. The 3-1-1 call center will be open beginning at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday morning. Service requests may also be initiated online at www.jacksoms.gov (click on 3-1-1).

Citizens may still log on to www.jacksonms.gov and click on the Code Red icon to sign up for emergency weather warnings and be called if they are in the path of severe weather, flash flooding or tornado warnings. Or they may call 3-1-1 to sign up there.

Residents should be prepared for power outages due to heavy winds. To report downed power lines, citizens may call 1-800-968-8243, that 1-800-9Outage. Residents are cautioned to stay away from downed power lines.

Shelters, Evacuation and Rescue

The City of Jackson opened Champion Community Center (1355 Hattiesburg Street) this afternoon for Jackson residents who may need to be evacuated from their homes. All other shelter openings are being coordinated through the American Red Cross.

The Jackson Police Department will provide necessary security at shelter sites in the City of Jackson, including shelters coordinated by the American Red Cross.

The Jackson Fire Department is prepared to assist the Jackson Police Department and Public Works crews with evacuation and rescue. Public Works crews and JPD will also work to place barricades or other traffic control devices on streets that may become flooded.

The Fire Department will also perform “wellness checks” for senior citizens.