Late last week Gov. John Bel Edwards issued a State of Emergency Declaration for North and Central Louisiana in response to several waves of severe weather and strong winds that moved across the area in the past week.
Several Louisiana parishes have declared states of emergency, and it is anticipated that other parishes may declare states of emergency and may be in need of assistance to response to this event.
The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) along with emergency crews have been deployed to the impacted areas and repairs are underway, however, it is anticipated that it may take days or up to one week before the power is fully restored.
“This emergency declaration will give parish officials access to much needed resources to help with the impacts of this severe weather and the significant power outages,” said Gov. Edwards. “I have directed GOHSEP Director Casey Tingle to travel to Shreveport to meet with local officials from the impacted parishes and am receiving constant updates. We are making certain officials receive the assistance they need as quickly as possible. We are urging everyone to pay close attention to the information and warnings from state, local and emergency officials.”
The following parishes are experiencing water outages: Bienville; Bossier; Caddo; Caldwell; DeSoto; and Jackson. The following parishes have been placed under boil advisories: Bienville; Bossier; Caddo; Catahoula; Grant; Natchitoches; Tensas; and Webster.
“In addition, the National Weather Center predicts excessive heat in Louisiana and has issued a Heat Advisory & Excessive Heat Warning over the next couple of days. Please take this heat warning seriously. Heat related illness can occur in many different ways, and it is important to stay hydrated and cool to prevent illness but to also recognize the signs and seek help immediately should it be necessary. Also, we know that some people may choose to use a generator. Remember the following for generator safety: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions; do not place the generators inside; place them at least 20 feet away from your home, downwind away from doors, windows and vents. Please check on the elderly, your family, friends and pets and stay safe.”
