The Department of Transportation and Public Works offers safety tips in preparation for Tropical Depression Eta
As Miami-Dade County continues to monitor the course of Tropical Depression Eta, the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTPW) offers safety tips and departmental service information. Residents are urged to be prepared and stay connected by following Miami-Dade County on social media. Download the Ready Miami-Dade Hurricane app for iOS and Android or visit miamidade.gov/hurricane for the latest updates.
Transit operations
Miami-Dade Transit facilities, Metrobus, Metrorail, Metromover, and Special Transportation Service (STS) operations, including evacuations, will cease no less than three hours before the County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) estimated arrival of tropical storm force winds (39 MPH).
Passengers are encouraged to register to receive Rider Alerts and Miami-Dade County Emergency Alerts to stay informed of the latest transit updates.
Bridge closures
In preparation for storm events, Miami-Dade County in coordination with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) and Monroe county, will begin locking down all drawbridges eight hours in advance of tropical storm-force winds (39 mph or higher). These bridges will be closed to marine navigation once lockdowns are complete and will remain closed for the duration of severe weather and until the drawbridges and waterways can be assessed for damages.
Driving during stormy conditions
Drivers are strongly encouraged to be cautious while driving in flooded areas. Attempting to drive through high water may stall the vehicle’s engine and cause further damage. Motorists should seek alternate routes whenever possible.
During severe storm conditions, motorists are encouraged to stay off the roads as much as possible. Those who must drive, should make sure their vehicle equipment, such as brake lights and wipers, are working properly. Proper tire tread depth and inflation is also important in ensuring good traction on wet roads. Be sure to fill up your vehicle’s gas tank early to avoid long lines.
Drivers should treat intersections with failed traffic lights as four-way stops, with all vehicles coming to a complete stop before taking turns traversing the intersection — even if the lights are flashing yellow.
Safety tips for Special Transportation Service (STS) patrons
When Miami-Dade County issues an evacuation order, STS will provide certified riders with a one-way trip. STS will not provide shopping trips during an emergency.
If you plan to go to a public evacuation center and need assistance with daily living because of a medical condition or disability, contact the Miami-Dade Office of Emergency Management to register for a Special Needs Center.
This program offers transportation and is available to STS and non-STS certified persons. To register, call 311 or contact the Miami-Dade Office of Emergency Evacuation Assistance.
Keeping storm drains clear of debris
The department reminds landscapers and residents they should not blow grass clippings onto streets and into the storm drainage system as they may clog the drains and lead to street flooding. Blowing leaves and grass clippings onto sidewalks, streets and storm drains is considered littering and a violation of Miami-Dade County’s Code Section 15-6.
For more information on how to properly handle and secure grass clippings, visit DTPW’s website.
For more details on Miami-Dade Transit services, visit our webpage or download the GO Miami-Dade Transit app. Join Mobility 305 to receive monthly news and other departmental updates.