Gulfport Provides Sandbags to Residents

Worried about coastal flooding and a possible tidal surge at 6 a.m. Tuesday, Gulfport officials are handing out sandbags to residents who want to shore up their homes.

Tropical Storm Debby's first impression has left much of Gulfport's Waterfront District still covered in debris and mud. But Debby is not done yet; the tropical storm still hovers over the Gulf of Mexico.

There is a big pile of sand outside City Hall. Staff have placed bags and a bagging station in the parking lot. It's a DIY station, but the sandbags are free. Just head to 2401 53rd St. S.

There are written directions at the station for residents to shovel and fill bags as needed. Staff will not be on hand to help. Sand will be available until the storm threat is over.

The big concern now is more coastal flooding. Police Chief Robert Vincent says officials are paying close attention to the tides. Vincent says the next low tide is around midnight Monday night. However the tide will only drop .4 feet.

Around 6 a.m. Tuesday morning, the tide will be back up another 1.9 feet, according to Vincent. That means Gulfport Beach could flood again and streets like Beach and Shore Boulevard may be underwater – again!

City Manager Jim O'Reilly advises people to stay away from flooded areas as Tropical Storm Debby continues to push and pour more water over land.

“Please do not drive through the standing water. Hopefully as soon as the wind goes down and the tide goes out, we’ll be able to clean the streets,” O'Reilly said.

For more information call 727-893-1089.