With evacuation orders issued in some Florida counties, highways across southern Alabama are open and available to move people to safer areas as Hurricane Helene moves toward landfall.
The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) designates at least a dozen roadways coming north or west out of Florida as hurricane evacuation routes. You can view the hurricane evacuation routes here: https://www.dot.state.al.us/programs/pdf/SWTP/HurricanePost.pdf
In order to accommodate evacuation traffic, ALDOT has ordered a halt to non-emergency lane restrictions or lane closures on all state, U.S. and interstate highways. This directive does not apply to construction projects that already have lane restrictions in place.
Helene is forecast to be a major hurricane when it makes landfall. Current models show landfall sometime Thursday evening along the Florida’s Big Bend/Panhandle coastline. Evacuation orders have been issued in a handful of Florida counties. Emergency officials in Florida are urging residents to take Helene’s threat seriously.
What to Expect
Parts of Alabama along the Georgia line are expected to experience high winds and heavy, sustained rainfall. Impacts in Alabama will begin sometime Wednesday and last through Friday. ALDOT and emergency management officials urge Alabama residents to closely monitor weather forecasts for the potential for changing conditions, including the storm track itself.
Emergency coordinators from ALDOT will be stationed at the Alabama Emergency Management Agency’s command center to work in conjunction with local officials and to direct resources as needed. ALDOT crews have made preparations to deal with storm-related damage as Helene moves inland. Crews across the state will remain on standby for debris removal and repairs arising from storm impacts.
Safety Tips
ALDOT officials are urging motorists to exercise caution and be prepared for potential disruptions. They are also urging the public to stay weather aware, monitor local news media outlets and social media for official announcements and to heed all warnings.
- Stay off the roads: If possible, avoid driving during the height of the storm and immediately after.
- Be aware of flooding: Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas. Turn around, don’t drown.
- Use caution on wet roads: Reduce speed, increase following distance, and avoid sudden braking or swerving.
- Watch for downed trees and power lines: Be alert for potential hazards that may be obscured by storm conditions.
- Have an emergency kit: Keep a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle, including essentials like water, food, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.
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