Below is a press release from the Mississippi Department of Transportation:
With hurricane season underway, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) reminds residents that contraflow could be implemented in the event of a powerful hurricane. To aid in the evacuation of Southeast Louisiana and Coastal Mississippi residents, contraflow would turn all four lanes of I-59 and I-55 traffic northbound from Louisiana through just south of Brookhaven and Hattiesburg.
“Contraflow is rare, but MDOT crews are prepared and ready to take action in the event a strong storm threatens the Gulf Coast,” said Commissioner Tom King, Southern Transportation District. “We want everyone to be able to safely evacuate in an emergency situation and that includes the safety of our citizens and our neighbors in Louisiana.”
To implement contraflow, it must first be requested by the governor of Louisiana and approved by the governor of Mississippi. The mandatory evacuation of the greater New Orleans area can occur as a result of Category 3 or greater hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico.
In the event of contraflow, interstate entrance ramps would be closed but exit ramps would remain open until congestion dictates them to be closed. MDOT crews would be stationed at each exit and would assist with implementation by placing traffic signs to direct drivers and barriers to close off entrance ramps.
To download the 2023 MDOT Hurricane Evacuation Guide, which includes information on contraflow and hurricane safety tips, visit GoMDOT.com/hurricanes.
