Port closed to vessel traffic

Mobile, Ala. – The Alabama State Port Authority has nearly completed terminal and facilities preparations in advance of Tropical Storm Gordon.  “While it is uncertain this storm will reach Hurricane status, we take these storms quite seriously,” said Jimmy Lyons, director and chief executive officers.  “High winds and storm surge could impact equipment and operations if steps are not taken.  Our personnel have been busy this morning tying down cranes and moving equipment either to higher ground or under cover.  We’re about as prepared as we can be.”

As of 7:00 am (CDT), the U.S. Coast Guard Captain of the Port declared Port Condition Zulu, essentially closing the Port of Mobile to all vessel traffic.  

Port Authority officials will release all non-essential personnel at 12:00 noon (CDT) today.  “It’s important that we prepare our facilities and then allow our employees sufficient time to make preparations at home,” said Lyons.  The Port will reopen to operations as soon as the storm passes and preliminary assessments for any damage are completed.  The U.S. Coast Guard will reopen the port to, with or without restrictions, to vessel traffic once channel surveys are completed and aids to navigation are inspected.