Alabama State Port Authority finishes storm preps

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - The Port of Mobile is currently under a Hurricane Watch as issued by the National Weather Service. The Alabama State Port Authority has completed all storm preparations in anticipation of potential impact associated with Tropical Storm Isaac.

“This storm appears to be moving more toward the west, but we are keeping a watchful eye. It is our plan to close our terminals at 3 p.m. today (Monday) and will release our employees, so they can go home to prepare their homes and families for the storm," H.S. 'Smitty' Thorne, acting director for the Port Authority, advised.

In a shutdown, only essential personnel and the Port Police remain on port during the storm’s duration.

Storm preparations have been ongoing at the Port Authority since Friday, including the stowing or securing of all equipment, moving vehicle fleets to higher ground, clearing the railroad interchange yard of all rail cars, and readying buildings and information technology systems against winds or high water impacts.

The Port Authority also required all vessels that did not have US Coast Guard approved mooring plan to vacate the port by 3 p.m. Sunday.

"We've emptied our barge fleet areas, moved the ships out and our shippers will finish picking up cargo from our terminals at 12 p.m. today. Shortly thereafter, the Authority's terminals will be closed," said Thorne.