E-Mail
Print
9-3 3pm
All St. Tammany Schools Set to Open September 4
All St. Tammany Parish Public Schools and Offices will reopen on Tuesday, September 4, 2012.
School System leaders are in constant contact with St. Tammany Parish officials about the possible cresting of the Pearl River. According to parish officials, the river is now expected to crest around 6 p.m. on Tuesday night at the town of Pearl River. Travel time from the crest to the Military Road area is estimated to be 10 to 12 hours. At that time, Lake Pontchartrain will be lower, which should allow the river to drain more quickly. Any decisions about school closures in the area will be made at the appropriate time.
“The safety of the families and students in the Military Road area is our primary concern at this time. The School System will work with any parent who chooses not to send their child to school during this uncertain time. ” said Superintendent W.L. “Trey” Folse, III.
Parents in the Military Road area should continue to monitor the situation on this website. We will also post updates on Channel 13, Facebook, Twitter, our mobile website (mobile.stpsb.org), and on our hotline (1-866-750-7489).
9-3 2:30pm
Parish Government
All employees are to return to work tomorrow for normal work hours.
Pearl River
A meeting among Parish Officials, including Parish President Pat Brister, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the National Weather Service has just concluded. The NWS updated officials regarding the status of the Pearl River and the postponed crest. The Pearl River is still expected to crest at 19.5’ at the Town of Pearl River but the crest time has been delayed to Tuesday at about 6:00PM. Travel time from that crest to the Military Road area is 10 – 12 hours.
For St. Tammany Parish residents, this means that Lake Pontchartrain, which is already falling, will be lower when the crest approaches the lake. This will allow the Pearl to drain more quickly into Lake Pontchartrain, keeping flood waters in subdivisions for shorter time.
The NWS reported that it is unusual for the Pearl to reach flood stage at this time of year, especially when the grounds are saturated. That leaves some uncertainty regarding the impact of the 19.5’ crest. However, the lowered level of Lake Pontchartrain is beneficial to the lowering of the river.
The tide levels along Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Maurepas are still one to two feet above normal. They are predicted, as of the afternoon briefing, to drop one to two feet each day.
It is important that citizens living along the river, particularly east of Military Road, watch the river through the end of this week. Parish Government, the NWS and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office will continue to monitor the river closely.
The EOC has received questions regarding flood stages and their potential impact. When river crests are released, they refer to feet above sea level. For example, the expected crest of the Pearl at the Town of Pearl River is 19.5 feet above sea level. If a home is near the river with an elevation of 18 feet, it is at greater risk than a home with an elevation of 20 feet.
As the river moves through its delta, the water level lowers as it has a greater area in which to expand. The expected crest height of 19.5 feet may not be the height near the mouth of the river.
In addition, as you move farther from the river, the water levels lower.
The Incident Command Centers prepared yesterday along Military Road will not be activated until, and unless, they are needed. The Parish will keep citizens apprised.
Council Meeting
The St. Tammany Parish Council will not meet Thursday, September 6th as scheduled. The new meeting date is Monday, September 10, 6:00PM at the Council Chambers on Koop Drive.
Utilities
Some boil orders continue. Please monitor the parish website, www.stpgov.org for updates.
Atmos Energy has not yet restored all of its customers in the harder hit areas. An update will be posted when received.
AT&T still has not yet restored phone and internet to all of its customers. We will post information when received.
Shelters
The Red Cross Shelter located at the Lacombe Recreation District will close today. The shelter at Aldersgate Methodist Church on Robert Blvd. in Slidell remains open.
9-3 1250pm
The National Weather Service has issued a new bulletin regarding the height of Pearl River. While still predicted to crest at 19.5 feet, the timing of the crest has changed and that is good news for St. Tammany Parish citizens.
The Pearl is now expected to crest Tuesday, September 4th at the Town of Pearl River around 6:00PM. Travel time from the crest to the Military Road area is 10 – 12 hours.
For St. Tammany Parish residents, this means that Lake Pontchartrain, which is already falling, will be lower when the crest approaches the lake. This will allow the Pearl to drain more quickly into Lake Pontchartrain, keeping flood waters in subdivisions for shorter time.
Rivers rise slowly and crest slowly. Should water enter your area, you will have sufficient time to evacuate if necessary.
Please continue to watch the Pearl River closely if you live east of Military Road.
Ice & Water Distribution:
As of this morning, all homes in St. Tammany Parish that are able to receive power have done so. Accordingly, the water and ice distribution sites will close at 6:00PM today in all areas of the parish.
If you pick up ice and water today, please thank the National Guardsmen who have been here to aid us during this storm. From aiding in search and rescue to distributing water, they have been a tremendous help to all.
9-2 11:30am
The City of Slidell sewer service is now back up to capacity. Residents may resume normal use.
UPDATE ON THE PEARL RIVER NAVIGATIONAL CANAL
St. Tammany Parish is calling for immediate & mandatory evacuation of locks 1 & 2 of the Pearl River diversion canal…essentially Bush south to Hickory. Lock 2 is in danger of imminent failure. Should it fail, the waters will come in fast. That’s on the Pearl River Diversion Canal between locks 1 & 2…essentially Bush South to Hickory. The southern most point is Highway 36.
9-1 2pm
CIty of Mandeville update
FROM THE MAYOR:
Cleco continues to restore power. Jackson Ave east is where attention is being directed. CLECO's goal is to have that area energized today. There has been some talk about permits. Permits are
FROM THE PARISH:
Beginning at 8:00AM this morning, the Louisiana National Guard will distribute ice and water at the following locations:
First Baptist Church in Covington, 16333 Louisiana Highway 1085
Lacombe Recreation District #4, 61100 North 12th Street
Heritage Park parking lot, 1330 Bayou Lane @ the corner of Pennsylvania, Slidell
FROM FEMA
At the direction of President Barack Obama, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) continues to coordinate the federal government's efforts to support state, local, tribal, private sector, and faith-based and non-profit partners, as the Gulf Coast states continue response and recovery efforts in the wake of Isaac.
Earlier today, the President held a call with a number of Parish Presidents, Mayors, and County Leaders from Louisiana and Mississippi let them know that they and their communities were in his thoughts and prayers and make clear that he had directed FEMA to continue to make all resources available. The President plans to visit Louisiana on Monday to meet with local officials and view ongoing response and recovery efforts to Hurricane Isaac, and Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Janet Napolitano will travel to Mississippi and Louisiana on Sunday, Sept. 2.
FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate was on the ground in Louisiana and met with U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu and Plaquemines Parish President Billy Nungesser today to discuss FEMA's efforts to support response and recovery in Louisiana following Hurricane Isaac. Administrator Fugate then traveled to the Mississippi Gulf Coast to meet with Mississippi Emergency Management Agency Director Robert Latham and other state and local officials and see firsthand the impact and the response efforts.
"I have witnessed outstanding response efforts being undertaken by state and local emergency managers and first responders. The leadership demonstrated during the Hurricane Isaac response can be attributed to the years of training, planning, and commitment to preparedness by the whole community," said FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate. "There are still many areas where the threat of flooding continues and I urge individuals to continue to monitor conditions and follow the direction of local officials."
As Isaac continues inland and rivers continue to rise in some areas, FEMA urges individuals in affected areas, and areas expected to be affected, to monitor their NOAA Weather Radios and their local news for severe weather updates and warnings throughout the Labor Day weekend. Always follow the instructions of state, local, and tribal officials, especially urgent evacuations orders and flash flood warnings.
Joint federal, state and local disaster assessments are underway in Florida and are scheduled to begin, safety permitting, in Louisiana and Mississippi. Plans are being made for assessments in other areas, as they become accessible. These assessments identify the damages in impacted counties to help the governor determine if additional federal support will be requested.
In support of Louisiana, FEMA recently transferred more than 500,000 liters of water, 390,000 meals, 50,000 blankets, 30,000 cots and 3,500 tarps to the State of Louisiana for the state to distribute to individuals at Points of Distribution (POD) sites. The state, in coordination with local governments, identifies the location of these PODs which are currently operating across a number of parishes. Individuals should contact their local emergency management for more information.
On Wednesday, President Obama signed major disaster declarations for the states of Louisiana and Mississippi, making federal aid available to supplement state and local response efforts for emergency protective measures and debris removal in the areas affected by Hurricane Isaac beginning on August 26, 2012. These declarations build upon emergency declarations issued for both states earlier this week. Statewide hazard mitigation is available to all counties and tribal governments in Mississippi, and to all parishes and tribal governments in Louisiana.
Today, FEMA announced an amendment to the major disaster declaration for the State of Louisiana to include the Individual Assistance Program. Federal funding is available to affected individuals in Jefferson, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. John the Baptist, and St. Tammany parishes. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover and uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.
Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated county can begin applying for assistance tomorrow by registering online at http://www.disasterassistance.gov/, by web enabled mobile device at m.fema.gov. If you do not have access to the internet, you can call 1-800-621-FEMA(3362). Survivors who have a speech disability or hearing loss and use TTY, should call 1-800-462-7585 directly; for those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone numbers will operate, starting tomorrow, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. (local time) seven days a week until further notice.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) has been closely working with the states of Louisiana and Mississippi. Teams are on the ground providing technical assistance, such as hydraulic modeling and finding available portable pumps, to reduce flooding along the Tangipahoa River and in Plaquemines Parish in Louisiana. USACE also deployed emergency power teams to Mississippi and Louisiana, and commodities, debris and temporary roofing teams are deployed to Louisiana.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Service (HHS) has two Disaster Medical Assistance Teams, an Incident Response Coordination Team, and equipment on scene in Baton Rouge and New Orleans. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is providing personnel and liaisons to support staffing of the Federal Medical Stations (FMSs). Two FMS caches have arrived in New Orleans and Baton Rouge.
A 24/7 Disaster Distress Helpline was activated by the HHS Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration as a resource to people seeking crisis counseling after experiencing a natural or manmade disaster or tragedy. The residents of the Gulf States can call 1-800-985-5990 for assistance.
Incident Management Assistance Teams are in state emergency operations centers in Mississippi and Louisiana as well as supporting state and local needs in Plaquemines Parish, La. Mobile Emergency Response Teams also are deployed to Louisiana and Mississippi to support state emergency communications requirements including voice, video and information services.
While Isaac has been downgraded to a tropical depression, it still poses an ongoing threat for some areas. According to NOAA's National Weather Service, a flood risk continues for low-lying areas in communities in northern Louisiana, northern Mississippi, and the states of Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, and Indiana during the next five days. Flash flood watches and warnings are currently in effect for portions of Arkansas and northern Louisiana. The National Weather Service is the official source for weather information.
As the storm continues to move further inland, FEMA's regional offices in Denton, Texas, Chicago, Ill., and Kansas City, Mo. are monitoring Tropical Depression Isaac, and remain in close coordination with potentially affected states. An Incident Management Assistance Team and a Mobile Emergency Response Support Team from a previous disaster are on the ground in Ohio and can support response efforts for the approaching storm, if needed.
FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
9-1 1:15pm
Recent information suggests that the Pearl River, at the Town of Pearl River, is expected to crest early Monday morning at 18.5 feet according to the National Weather Service. There is a possibility it could crest higher. We are asking residents East of and along Military Rd. and Highway 433 extending to Lake Pontchartrain be vigilant for the next day and a half. Please watch for advisories from the St. Tammany Parish EOC and the National Weather Service concerning the progression of rising waters in the river as it makes its way thought the parish. The Sheriff’s office will establish a command center if deemed necessary. We have a plan in place and will provide you with any and all information as this situation progresses. We will communicate via reverse 911 calls, STPGOV.ORG, Facebook and Twitter; as well as through local media outlets. Please be advised that a reverse 911 call may show on your phone as an unknown caller. Please do not ignore these calls if you reside in the potentially affected areas. Sandbag locations will be established if the need arises.
List of potentially affected subdivisions:
· Abney Country Aire
· Avery Estates
· Bay Ridge
· Belle Acres
· Beverly Heights
· Blue Crane Point
· Brekenridge
· Cross Creek
· Cross Gates East
· Doubloon Bayou Estates
· Fairview prk
· Forest Ridge
· French Branch Estates
· Frenchmens Estates
· I-59 Mobile Home Park
· Indian Village Campsites
· LaChenier
· Magnolia Forest
· Mayfair Estates
· Morgan Bluff (Morgan Bluff Estates)
· Northshore Mobile Home Park
· Paradise Point
· Pirate’s Harbor
· Quail Ridge
· Quail Valley
· Ravenwood
· Rigonets Estates
· River Gardens
· River Oaks
· Rivercrest
· RiverviewEstates
· Rocket Ranch MHP
· Sung Harbor
· Starling Point Estates
· Tammany MHP
· The Bluffs
· The Landings of Cross Gates
· The Settlement
· Treasure Isle
· Turtle Creek
9-1 1pm
St. Anselm in Madisonville offering hot meals starting at 11:30 a.m. and distributing food boxes till they are gone
9-1 9am
Ice & Water Distribution Sites
Beginning at 8:00AM this morning, the Louisiana National Guard will distribute ice and water at the following locations:
First Baptist Church in Covington, 16333 Louisiana Highway 1085
Lacombe Recreation District #4, 61100 North 12th Street
Heritage Park parking lot, 1330 Bayou Lane @ the corner of Pennsylvania, Slidell
Parish President Pat Brister and Slidell Mayor Freddy Drennan worked with the Louisiana National Guard throughout the day yesterday to implement this program. The supplies were delivered overnight and the Guard is manning these distribution stations.
The time of closing and tomorrow’s hours will be announced shortly.
7:00pm UPDATE
News from the Town of Abita Springs:
Rangeline Road, Hwy 59 @ Hwy 36. The Road is NOW PASSABLE, High water signs remain and water continues to cover the road so extreme caution should be exercised when driving on the road. Be advised that the water continues to fall and roadways will be clearing as that happens.
News from the City of Mandeville:
Flood waters are receding in Mandeville and it is my hope we will soon see a dry Lakeshore Drive. We continue to stress that the lakefront is not where you want to be. Public Works is removing dead animal carcasses and debris. Restoration of CLECO electrical service is ongoing but not far from completed. Water and sewer service is limited in some areas.
We are in the process of assessing flooded homes and ask for your help to identify all flooded properties. Please call City Hall at 626-3144. If you call after hours, please leave a message on my extension, 225. We are assessing infrastructure damage in water, sewer and roads across the city.
Debris pickup will begin Tuesday afternoon. Please segregate tree and green waste from any household waste such as furniture, carpet, padding, and appliances. Tree removal contractors must be licensed by the state and the city to insure proper insurance and protection to our citizens. We will enforce the licensing requirements.
The CLECO web site has a schedule of service restoration by address. Please go to CLECO.com.
UPDATED list of Boil Advisories:
Boil Order Advisory from DHH & Tammany Utilities
The Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals' Safe Drinking Water Program today issued its most comprehensive water system boil advisory list following Hurricane Isaac.
Major storm events like Hurricane Isaac that cause power outages can result in pressure loss for a water system, or floodwater flowing into the system can cause natural contaminants to enter the drinking water supply. The DHH Office of Public Health staff contacted water systems around the State to assess whether their systems experienced any of these issues and would need a precautionary boil advisory.
Parish: St. Tammany
• Alton Water Supply
• Tesi Rigolets Harbor
• Indian Hills Trailer Park
• Lake Ramsey
• Forest Glen SD
• River Oaks
• Chapman Apartments
• St. Tammany Parish - Madisonville Woods
• Lakeshore Estates
• Abita Springs RV Park
• St. Tammany Parish Salvation Manor St. Joe
• Ravenwood Subdivision
• H20 Services- I59 Mobile Home Park
• Tchefuncte Harbor Townhomes
• Madisonville On The Lake
• Beverly Heights Manor
• Dream Courts Mobile Home Park
• Oak Villa Trailer Park
• H20 Services- Whippoorwill Grove
• Hillcrest Apartments
• Oak River Estates
• Lewisburg Estates
• St. Tammany Parish - St. Gertrude
• Port Louis Townhomes
• Bobs Apartments
• Piney Ridge Trailer Park
• St. Tammany Parish Pineland Park Sd
• Village Guthrie Subdivision
• Cross Gates Utilities -Cross Gate S/D
• Whisperwood Estates Sd
• Tchefuncte Club Estates
• Tammany Mobile Home Park
• Ozone Pine Subdivision
• Southeast La State Hospital
• Mangano's Mobile Home Park
• Madisonville Water Supply
• Eden Isles Water Supply
• Country Club Trailer Park
• Azalea Lane Trailer Park
• H20 Services- Guste Island Water Supply
• St. Tammany Parish-Bedico Creek
• Shady Pines Trailer Park
• Eagle Lake Mobile Home Park
• H20 Services- Blue Lake Hills
• Pearl Plantation Townhouse
• Tesi Cherrywood
• St. Tammany Parish - Lake Hills Village
• Chahta Mobile Home Park
• Marina Del Ray Water System
• Ponderosa Estates
• Beau Village Subdivision
• Tesi Beau Pre Sd Water Supply
• The Meadows
• Crossgates Ben Thomas Rd Water District
• Central Park Subdivision
• Pine Crest Trailer Park
• Ponderosa Ranches Subdivision
• Homeland Heights
• Tesi Rigolets Estates
• Meco
• Em's Blue Diner
• Winn Dixie #1500
• The Restaurant
• Ford Lincoln Mercury Of Slidell
• Lakeshore Chrysler
• Brian Harris Autoplex
• All Star Toyota
• Capitol Steel
• Bashab Express
• The Learning Junction
• Backroads Mercantile
• Hosanna Lutheran Church
• Northshore 1 Commercial Condo Association
• B & B Grocery & Deli
• Fontainebleau School
• Charlous Pizzeria
• Speedy G #2
• Scuttlebutt
• Waste Management
• Billy's Lounge
• Lake Castle School
• Two Sisters Billiards
• Hwy 59 Chevron
• Tiffany Lanes
• Lock 1 Pantry
• Cleco Service Center
• St. Tammany School Board Education Center
• Russell's Quick Stop
• Goodbee Quickstop
• Sixth Ward Cafeteria
• T Rivers
• Alisha Bayou Bargain
• Lacombe Stores
• Pepe's Mexican Restaurant
• Monteleone Jr High School
• Roberts Family M.R.K.T.
• Planet Kids Academy #2
• Tabbi's House
• Slidell Seafood
• Upper Room Bible Church, Inc.
• Lakeshore High School
• Le Cafe De Bon Temps
• Indian Village Trading Post
• Camp Salmen
• Vintage Court
• Gas -N-Shop
• Carolla's Shopping Center
• Rally's Hamburgers
• AT And T
• Hyundai Of Slidell
• Kidz Klubhouse
• Paparazzi
• Keith Young's Restaurant
• J & S Chevron
• Northlake Express
• Daiquiris Now
• Central Progressive Bank
• St. Tammany Recreation District #2
• Us Fish & Wildlife Headquarters
• Folger Coffee Co-Lacombe Distribution Center
• 61700 Hwy 434 Building
• J&S Bayou Gas & Grocery
• New Orleans East Koa
• Northshore Square Mall
• Slidell Little Theater
• Land-O-Pines Campground
• Conquering Word Christian Academy
• Popeye's Fried Chicken
• Value Travel Inn, Inc.
• Sixth Ward Jr High W S
• Ramsey Grill And Cafe
• Wendy's Restaurant 1593
• Hillcrest Lake Villas
• Gymnastics Plus - Eddie Reso
• Frostop
• State Police Troop L
• Sal & Judy's Water Supply
• Fontainebleau State Park
• La Provence Restaurant
• Fifth Ward Jr High W S
• Chata-Ima Elem School W S
• Bush Shell 2
• Northminster Montessori
• Howze Beach Well
• Tulane University Primate Center
• Starc
• Bayou Lacombe Middle School
• Lacombe-Mandeville Headstart
• Little Oak Elem School
• Trinity Marine Group
• One Stop Market & Liquor
• A To Z Daycare Center
• Lollipop Ranch
• The Little Academy
• Assunta's Restaurant
• Alice Restaurant
• Bayou Industrial Park
• Taco Bell #2720
• Pelican Park
• Kinderhaus Montesorri
• House Of Seafood
• Check-In Check-Out
• Riverside Travel Center
• Relax Inn
• Knights Of Columbus Bingo
• Abita Springs Golf Club W S
Boil orders issued by Tammany Utilities:
Alton Water System
Autumn Lakes
Beau Village
Bedico Creek
Ben Thomas Water System
The Bluffs
Central Park
Cross Creek
Cross Gates
Eagle Lake MHP
Forest Glenn
Lake Hills
Lewisburg Estate
Madisonville on the Lake
Madisonville Woods
The Landings of Cross Gates
Pineland Park
Pirate’s Harbor
Ponderosa Estates
Ponderosa Ranches
Port Louis Townhomes
Ravenwood
River Oaks Subdivision
St. Gertrude
St. Joe/Salvation Manor
Shady Pines MHP
Tchefuncte Harbor Townhomes
Town of Madisonville & and other citizens who receive water from the Town of Madisonville system
Turtle Creek
Village Guthrie
Willow Wood
If your neighborhood is listed above or you believe that your well may have been compromised, bring all drinking water to a full boil for a least one minute before using it for drinking or cooking.
Citizens should be aware the loss of power to a water distribution system may result in brown water. Continue to boil water until the boil order water is lifted.
Friday, August 31, 2012 Parish President Brister’s 10:00AM
Press Briefing:
Good morning.
I am happy to report that the flood waters are receding across St. Tammany Parish this morning, from Madisonville to Eden Isles and Carr Drive. The water level in Lake Pontchartrain is steadily declining.
The water is receding from most of the flooded homes but street flooding remains. Do not enter the flooded areas. Riding through flooded areas is both dangerous and destructive. Sheriff Strain will assure you that he will strictly enforce regulations in these areas.
Almost all of our rivers have crested and are in the process of subsiding. However, we are watching the Pearl River closely. It is predicted to crest on Sunday over flood stage. We will keep you informed of that situation.
In the past two days, first responders rescued over 500 residents from flooded neighborhoods. The personnel at the Emergency Operations Center worked over 1100 task orders.
The St. Tammany Parish Department of Public Works crews are on the streets clearing unsafe situations on public property. The Department of Engineering is inspecting parish bridges. The Department of Development/Permits is beginning damage assessment.
We will release damage assessment information as it becomes available.
As of 8:00AM, power outages were reduced from 82 thousand to 49 thousand. I am sure that Danny Schuss of CLECO will be giving us even better numbers in a few minutes. If anyone was out yesterday, you are aware of the traffic jams across the parish.
If you see a repair truck or an emergency vehicle, please get out of their way. Also, be aware that utility workers and public works departments are on the streets working for you. Consider their safety.
We are working with FEMA and the American Red Cross at this time to coordinate relief efforts for our residents. As soon as we have confirmed information, we will release it.
The St. Tammany Parish Economic Development Foundation is assessing the impact of Isaac on our businesses. They are working directly with the Louisiana Department of Economic Development to meet their needs. Businesses should call 985-809-7874 or email stedfinfo@stedf.org for more information.
We have learned from previous storms that recovery may be more dangerous than the storm itself. For the next several days, we are facing hot and humid conditions. Take all precautions to protect yourself from the heat.
We are working on water distribution points at this time and will announce them as soon as possible.
We are continually posting information on stpgov.org and on the St. Tammany Parish Government official Facebook page. We are sending information to our partners in the media as quickly as we are able.
Yesterday evening, a reporter asked me about St. Tammany’s response to Isaac. I was proud to tell her that in St. Tammany Parish we work together as a team. We conducted rescues, put out fires, provided shelter, cleared the roads and are now restoring power. That is our strength and I am proud of the work of every member of this tea
Fire District One in eastern St. Tammany reports:
Generally, water has receded from homes in the district but remains on streets scattered through the area. They reiterate, do not drive on streets with flood water.
All fire stations in the district are up and manned with the exception of the Eden Isles station. That station should be operational today.
When the winds subsided yesterday, firefighters spent most of the remaining daylight hours clearing trees from streets.
Fire District One is concerned about potential flooding from the Pearl River. In preparation, they are implementing a staffing plan for the predicted crest of the river on Sunday.
From the City of Covington:
Friday, August 31st, 8:00am - IESI(Coastal Waste) will PICKUP HOUSEHOLD GARBAGE TODAY (Friday, 8/31) and resume Wednesday service next week; GREEN WASTE PICKUP will begin next week; at this time there will be no recycling services due to flooding of IESI recycling facility.
Slidell PD Update:
Palm Lake Residents may return and will be admitted to the subdivision with proper ID. Foot traffic only at this time. There is no longer a curfew in the City of Slidell. Businesses are beginning to open.
Press Conference:
Parish President Pat Brister and Sheriff Jack Strain will hold a press conference this morning at 10:00AM at the Emergency Operations Center. It will be shown live on Access St. Tammany, Channel 10. It will be broadcast live on WWL 870 AM and 105.3 FM, and on the Lake 94.7. We are waiting on word about other television station coverage.
8:30am Friday, August 31
2:00pm August 30
Causeway Bridge repopened to traffic in both directions.
1:00 August 30, 2012
Areas of St. Tammany Parish that have been previously reported as being flooded remain flooded at this time.
Additional areas of concern:
The Fire District reports that the Hillcrest Subdivision in Talisheek, south of Hwy 435, has taken 4 to 5 feet of water.
Highway 59 at the Abita River is impassable.
The City of Slidell reports that flood waters appear to be leveling. In addition to the subdivisions previously reported, flood waters entered Abney Estates on the eastern side of Pontchartrain Drive.
The City of Mandeville is still conducting rescue operations along the lakefront. Water is still in the area of Monroe.
The Coin du Lestin subdivision is reporting water in some areas up to four feet.
All boil orders previously issued are still in effect.
8-30-Noon
Parish President Pat Brister and Sheriff Jack Strain have decided to lift the curfew tonight. This will allow residents to restock supplies and take care of necessary errands. They want to remind all citizens to use caution driving on flooded and blocked roadways as crews are still assessing damage.
The Causeway bridge is now open, southbound only FOR EMERGENCY PERSONNEL ONLY
A boil order has been issued for the citizens in the Town of Madisonville and other citizens who receive water from the Town of Madisonville system under the authority of Mayor Peter Gitz. You know you are in that system if you get a water bill from the Town of Madisonville.
The following areas are also under a boil advisory:
• Autumn Lakes
• The Bluffs
• Cross Gates
• Cross Creek
• French Branch Estates
• The Landings of Cross Gates
• Turtle Creek
• Willow Wood
• River Oaks Subdivision
• Alton Water System
• Ben Thomas Water System
If your neighborhood is listed above or you believe that your well may have been compromised, bring all drinking water to a full boil for a least one minute before using it for drinking or cooking.
Slidell Memorial Hospital remains on Condition One lockdown as storm continues; the only entrance available is at the Emergency Department, which is open to the public. SMH is operating on stable generator power and is functioning well but awaiting power to be restored by CLECO. All elective surgeries and endoscopies are cancelled for Thursday. The SMH Regional Cancer Center is up and running.
8-30 8am
We are closely monitoring high water levels caused by storm surge along the south side of St. Charles from the Jefferson Parish Line through Des Allemands. Storm surge is actually still rising to our south, but not as fast.
Bayou Des Allemands levels are approaching the record highs during Hurricane Juan. The risk of flooding on the West Bank in lower lying neighborhoods from storm surge is still a possibility.
CURFEW: The mandatory curfew in St. Charles Parish is being lifted at daylight Aug. 30. It will go back into effect at 10 p.m. through 6 a.m. Friday morning since we expect that large areas in St. Charles Parish will still be without power.
Residents will be allowed to re-enter St. Charles Parish, but are advised that there will be few stores, gas stations, pharmacies and restaurants open today, though some have expressed interest in opening later today.
At this time, I-10 in LaPlace is still closed west of the I-55 junction and Airline Drive between LaPlace and Norco is still closed, both due to high water. The Luling Bridge is open.
Though the curfew is lifted, we urge anyone who does not have to be on the road to please not do so.
7:45am
The State Police have just reported that the I-10 at Oak Harbor interchange, exit 261 is now CLOSED. If residents are unable to get evacuate this area safely, please call 911.
Thursday, 6:45AM
8-29
Curfew tonight Wednesday, Aug 29 - 6pm to 6am Thursday.
Mayor Louis Fitzmorris and the Town of Abita Springs would like to request that the residents of Abita Springs conserve water and refrain from using sewage services as much as possible. The power to the town lift stations that service this area is out.
Rescue efforts have are underway in Lacombe, Port St. Louis, Indian Village & Palm Lake at this time. The waters are still rising.
It appears that Lake Pontchartrain is beginning to stabilize its level on the western side. Stabilization of the eastern side will follow.
Shelter information: There are 90 residents at Creekside Jr., 67 at William Pitcher & 46 at Special Needs Center.
Power Outages: Cleco reports 54,632 homes without power in St. Tammany. WST has 12,435 and Entergy reports 1,331.
8-29 1:50PM
8-29-1:30pm
It has just been reported that the levee at Port Louis/Guste Island has broken and waves are entering the subdivision. Search and rescue is beginning in that subdivision as well as in the Indian Village area.
Approximately 56,468 homes in St. Tammany Parish are without power.
218 residents are in shelters.
In a life-threatening situations, call 9-1-1.
8-29 12:30PM
Video of the 10:00 press conference at the EOC is available on www.stpgov.org
The STP Director of Emergency Preparedness is reporting that the winds are shifting over Lake Pontchartrain which may push more lake water to the north shore.
The City of Slidell is reporting 2.5 feet of water on Camellia Drive and water is continuing to rise. The Slidell PD Search and Rescue Units are on alert.
Water is continuing to rise along St. Tammany’s 57 mile coastline from Madisonville to Avery Estates. The EOC has reports that McManus Road in Slidell beginning to take water as well as the Lewisburg area near Mandeville. Residents in the southern Lacombe area should also be on alert. Parish officials and law enforcement are urging all citizens in the low lying areas to take precautionary measures.
Water has reached Jefferson Street in Mandeville. We have a report of 4 feet of water at the Girod Street intersection.
We have no reports of water threatening homes in Eden Isles at this time. Water is rising in the canals and parish officials are monitoring it closely. We are posting photos on Facebook taken by Wayne Wortmann of Moonraker Drive.
The low lying critical drainage areas of St. Tammany
Parish Offices will be closed Thursday and Friday as will the St. Tammany Parish public schools. Parish Animal Control will also be closed on Saturday. Tammany Utilities workers should check with their supervisors to determine when they are to resume work.
8-29-12 10am City of Mandeville update-
To all Citizens of the City of Mandeville:
10:00 AM
415 S. Jefferson Avenue
Covington, LA 70433
65434 Hwy. 41
Pearl River, LA 70452
8/29/12 10a.m. City of Slidell’s Hurricane Isaac update
This morning, Mayor Freddy Drennan drove through Slidell to assess the damage of Isaac thus far. He noted that other than downed trees and power lines, there appeared to be no major damage at that time, and the city has not yet received any reports of water in homes.
The hurricane has moved slightly westward, which will be to Slidell’s benefit. The mayor has cautioned, however, that the National Weather Service is advising that the storm has slowed down, extending the timeline during which the most significant impact will be experienced. Slidell will continue to be in the current storm cycle all day today and into tonight. A storm surge of 8 ft. is still anticipated, which will likely peak between noon and 2 p.m. today when the winds shift. While the HESCO bags are in place to connect the levee system across Hwy. 11, there is a possibility of water overtopping at the railroad tracks on t
9:30AM Update
School Superintent Trey Folse will be joining President Brister and Sheriff Strain at the 10:00 AM press conference.
St. Tammany Parish Offices will be closed on Thursday and Friday, August 30 & 31. Tammany Utilities employees and Public Works employees need to check with their supervisors about their return to work.
Reports have come in of trees down and power out along Thompson Road in Slidell and 9th Street in Alton.
1:00AM Update
Winds are now reported steady at 24 mph with gusts of 43 mph.
Power outages are reported at 11,276. Both WST and Cleco have pulled crews off the road and will return to work as soon as the conditions are deemed safe.
Road Closures: Hwy 11 bridge, Causeway and Lake Road in Madisonville.
We are receiving some reports of downed trees and power lines in several areas of the parish. Please call 985-898-2323 to report non-life threatening emergencies.
11:30PM Update
Winds are now reported steady at 33 mph with gusts of 49 mph.
Power outages are reported at 9,854. Both WST and Cleco have pulled crews off the road and will return to work as soon as the conditions are deemed safe.
Road Closures: Causeway and Lake Road in Madisonville.
We are receiving some reports of downed trees and power lines in several areas of the parish. Please call 985-898-2323 to report non-life threatening emergencies.
We will issue another update at 1:00am.
9:45PM Update
Winds are now reported steady at 24 mph with gusts of 41 mph. Power outages are reported at 3,263.
Rumor Control: Some media have reported that the Bogue Falaya Bridge at Boston Street may overtop tomorrow. The official forecast is for the river to reach peak at 10.5 feet, well below the 17 feet needed to impact the bridge.
A tree have fallen on I12 Westbound, Mile Marker 79 ( just west of the Airport Rd. Intersection). Other trees down are reported on Fish Hatchery Rd in Lacombe, in the Ozone Woods subdivision west of Slidell, Hwy 1090 in Slidell and Pete Kennedy Road.
We are also receiving some reports of downed power lines in several areas of the parish. The utility companies have been notified.
Please call 985-898-2323 to report non-life threatening emergencies.
We will issue another update before midnight.
8:15 PM Tuesday, August 28
The Causeway is now closed.
The majority of calls we are receiving at this time in the EOC are about trees falling. Winds at this time at the National Weather Service Officer are 21 miles per hour out of the northeast with gusts up to 38 miles per hour. Law enforcement is reporting higher gusts in other areas of the parish. The rain bands are increasing but no heavy rain yet. The NWS Office in Slidell has recorded less than an inch of rain so far today.
We have reports of a little over 2,750 homes without power at this time. The electric companies are working as long as it is safe to do so.
Current registration in our shelters is 145.
Lake Road in Madisonville is closed.
Today, winds were pushing the water in Lake Pontchartrain to the south. At some point in the early morning hours, as the eye of Isaac passes north, the winds will shift and begin to push the storm water in Lake Pontchartrain toward the north shore. When the water begins to rise, it will continue to rise until about 7:00PM.
We are going to be monitoring rainfall closely. The amount of rain, combined with the amount of water pushed into Lake Pontchartrain, will determine the reach of flood waters tomorrow. For example, with a coastal home elevated to ten feet with a five surge, flooding is unlikely. However, the amount of rainfall may cause flooding in low lying areas especially when combined with the storm surge.
This is a time for caution but not for undue concern. Estimates of rainfall vary from 6 to 10 inches over the next two days depending upon your location in the parish and how the rainbands cross our area.
We will have another update in a few hours.
08-28-12 7:15pm
10:00 AM
415 S. Jefferson Avenue
Covington, LA 70433
65434 Hwy. 41
Pearl River, LA 70452
08-28-12 6pm
City of Slidell Isaac update-
HURRICANE ISAAC UPDATE: The National Weather Service has advised Mayor Drennan that the hurricane is growing and strengthening slightly as it nears the city. The storm is both slow moving and wobbling somewhat in its path, which may direct the heaviest hurricane force winds away from the city. The storm’s rainfall, combined with the saturation of the ground, will make falling trees a concern and power outages likely.
Mayor Drennan has cautioned citizens that it is anticipated the city will experience the majority of the hurricane’s weather in two increments—the initial front end of the storm, followed by a shift of winds from the Southeast as the back end of the storm passes, with a break in between the two. The majority of the intense weather likely will occur between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Wednesday. Feeder bands could continue as late as Thursday. An 8 ft. storm surge from Lake Pontchartrain
SLIDELL POLICE DEPARTMENT – Chief Randy Smith has advised that the HESCO baskets at Hwy. 11 appear to be working well thus far. The baskets are used to connect the two levees on either side of the highway to increase the city’s protection from the storm surge. He has also emphasized that officers will be strictly enforcing the curfew and the ordinances which prohibit driving through streets with standing water, to protect homeowners and business owners from flooding which could result by vehicular traffic. The Louisiana National Guard has deployed 24 guardsmen to assist the Slidell Police Department at locations throughout the city as needed.
CLECO has advised there have been some outages throughout the city, mostly due to fallen limbs, and crews have worked quickly to fix them. It is anticipated that as the hurricane winds increase, there will be additional outages. CLECO spokesperson David Hursey has advised that crews will continue to work to repair outages until such time as weather conditions make such unsafe. After that, crews will resume those efforts once weather conditions permit.
To check the status of outages and repairs, visit CLECO’s storm center link at http://www.cleco.com/
SANDBAGS – As of 4 p.m. Tuesday, the City of Slidell had provided 57,000 sandbags to citizens, at which time additional sand had to be ordered. The city still has on hand an additional 25,000 bags which will be available for citizens to fill once the sand has arrived, until dusk this evening. No further sandbag supplies will be provided after that time.
LOW LYING AREAS – In anticipation of street flooding, crews have staked off the entrance to the Palm Lake subdivision and other low lying areas in preparation for barricading when needed. Once streets are barricaded, no vehicular traffic will be allowed into or out of these areas.
City administration, personnel and first responders will continue to monitor the hurricane activity throughout the night, and will post updates as needed. The next major update will be posted at approximately 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 29. Updates are available on the city’s website at www.slidell.la.us/
08-28-12 9:15am
Shelter Openings
With the imminent arrival of Tropical Storm force winds, St. Tammany Parish, the American Red Cross, and the St. Tammany Parish School Board will open the following shelters:
10:00 AM
William Pitcher Junior High
415 S. Jefferson Avenue
Covington, LA 70433
11:00 AM
Creekside Junior High
65434 Hwy. 41
Pearl River, LA 70452
Residents should bring all supplies with them to the shelter, including food, medicine, bedding and activities for children.
08-27-12 8:45pm
Chief Smith is requesting that anyone wishing to evacuate to do so now! He is also asking that if you do not need to be on the roads to please stay at home.
The public is asked to call 911 for emergencies only and use 985-643-3131 for non-emergency calls.
08-27-12 8pm
From the St Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office
Sheriff's Office Prepares for Saturated Patrols during Isaac -
The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office will have every available deputy patrolling streets and neighborhoods throughout St. Tammany, beginning at 6:00 AM tomorrow, Sheriff Jack Strain announced today.
Regular criminal patrol shifts will be doubled during and immediately after Isaac. All detectives with the Criminal Investigations division will be placed with patrol deputies. In addition, all personnel from the Marine, Street Crimes, Traffic, Narcotics and K-9 divisions will be on 24 hour patrol. The entire Reserve division has been activated, augmenting our on-street presence with an additional 80 deputies.
The Sheriff's Office has readied all its high-water equipment, including trucks and special amphibious vehicles in the event water rescues become necessary.
Residents in low-lying areas are urged to evacuate to higher shelter; however, if they become trapped by rising flood waters they should call 9-1-1 as soon as possible.
Recap of Emergency Operations
The Emergency Operations Center continues to be busy as we approach the dinner hour. First responders, elected officials, and members of the clergy have all checked in today in preparation for TS Isaac. With the last advisory, Isaac is close to reaching hurricane strength. Because of the uncertain strength and path of this storm, it is very important that everyone continue to monitor local media.
We will begin to experience tropical storm force winds late tomorrow morning. The winds will grow, predicted to reach hurricane strength, throughout the day.
In addition to winds and storm surge, emergency officials are monitoring the amount of rain that Isaac may bring. St. Tammany will likely receive heavier rainfall if we are on the eastern side of the storm. All of the parish detention ponds that having pumping capability have been reduced to the lowest level possible.
Beginning at 7:00PM tonight, call takers will be on duty to answer your calls at the Emergency Operations Center at 985-898-2323. Please call 898-2323 to report fallen trees, closed roads or other non-emergency related tasks. Remember to always call 9-1-1 in case of emergency.
Citizens living south of Business Highway 190 or Highway 22, are asked to voluntarily evacuate. As there is a potential for an interruption of power, citizens needing dialysis or similar treatments are asked to take precautionary actions.
Sandbag locations will be open tonight until 7:00PM and will re-open from 7:00AM until Noon Tuesday August 28th at the following locations:
- Covington Barn, 1305 N. Florida St., Covington
- Keller Barn, 63131 Fish Hatchery Rd., Lacombe
- Koop Drive, 21411 Koop Drive, Mandeville (under Tammany Trace water tower)
- Airport Road Barn, 34783 Grantham College Rd., Slidell
- Fritchie Barn, 63119 Hwy 1090, Pearl River
The Special Needs Shelter will open Tuesday, Aug 28, 7am at Covington High School. This shelter is for St. Tammany Parish residents with special medical needs that cannot go to a general population shelter. Patients will be evaluated prior to admittance to ensure that they meet the criteria. Call 985-898-2323 for more information.
The parish will open general population shelters if needed on Tuesday, August 28th. We will post this information as soon as sheltering is confirmed.
President Brister met with elected officials, first responders and member of the faith-based community at the EOC today to coordinate storm response.
First responders and utility companies are arriving at the Emergency Operations Center tonight. A full activation will take place at 7:00AM Tuesday morning.
From the City of Covington
With the projected arrival of Isaac, the City of Covington anticipates hurricane force conditions Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday, with possible power outages that a storm of this nature may bring. Covington is prepared and ready to serve its residents prior to and after the storm has passed. Please stay tuned to our local and national media outlets for storm and emergency updates from our local elected officials. Please note:
CITY HALL – offices will be closed on Tuesday & Wednesday
GARBAGE/RECYCLING pickup will not take place this Wednesday and residents should make sure their carts are off the street and secure
DOWN POWER LINES AND TREES should be reported to Covington Police Department – (985) 892-8500 or Covington Fire Department – (985) 898-4727 and CLECO – 800-622-6547
SHELTER information – please refer to the St. Tammany Parish website www.stpgov.org
SANDBAGS – St. Tammany Parish Covington Barn, 1305 N. Florida Street in Covington will be open until 7:00pm Monday
INFORMATION SERVICES – continue to monitor St. Tammany Parish website at www.stpgov.org and the City of Covington website at www.covla.com
08-27-12 1pm
Over the past 24 hours, I have met with elected officials, law enforcement, firefighters, the school board, and other agencies that play a role in emergency preparedness. We are as prepared as we can be at this time.
Our storm water detention ponds have been pumped, sandbags stations are open, and emergency personnel are convening in the Emergency Operations Center.
While the path of Tropical Storm Isaac still contains some uncertainty, the impacts predicted for St. Tammany Parish at this time are:
24 hours of Tropical Storm Force Winds
8 hours of Hurricane Force Winds
An 8 to 10 foot storm surge, plus wave action, is possible in Lake Pontchartrain according to Parish hydrologists.
The surge will likely come slowly and leave slowly. The lake will not drain quickly.
Rainfall of 8 to 16 inches is possible.
Given these current predictions, St. Tammany Parish will open the parish Special Needs Shelter at Covington High School at 7:00AM, Tuesday, August 28th. For Special Needs Shelter information call 985-898-2323. This shelter is for persons with special medical needs who cannot go to a general population shelter. Patients will be evaluated prior to admittance to assure they meet the criteria.
We are preparing to open general population shelters should they be needed.
The Emergency Operations Center will partially activate tonight with first responders and utility companies on duty. The Center will activate fully at 7:00 AM Tuesday morning.
The State of Louisiana will close access to the Hwy 11 Bridge from the South Shore at 8:00 AM Tuesday. The City of Slidell will likely close Hwy 11 at the city limits before the on-set of tropical force winds.
St. Tammany Parish Government offices and public schools will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday.
For up to date information, check our website www.stpgov.org or follow St. Tammany Parish Government on Facebook.
08-27-12 11:30am
Mandeville calls for evacuation of low-lying areas
From Mayor Donald Villere of Mandeville
I am issuing a voluntary evacuation for all low lying areas in the city of Mandeville. We expect to be directly affected by Isaac as a Category 2 Hurricane on Tuesday afternoon and increasing through Wednesday. Power outtages are expected. Special announcements include:
1.There will be no shelters in Mandeville. Please refer to the parish website, www.stpgov.org
2.Garbage and recycling collections in Mandeville will be delayed until Friday. There will be no pick up on Wednesday.
3.Sandbags are currently available at our Public Works Department, 1100 Mandeville High Blvd.
4.City Hall and the Community Center will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday, but my office will be open for calls 24/7 at 985-626-1082.
5.Down power lines and trees should be reported to our Police Department, 985-626-9711
6.Updated information will be available on the City’s Facebook page as well as our website, www.cityofmandeville.com.
St. Tammany Parish will open five sandbag stations at the following locations from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM Monday, August 27th at the following locations:
-
Covington Barn, 1305 N. Florida St., Covington
-
Keller Barn, 63131 Fish Hatchery Rd., Lacombe
-
Koop Drive, 21411 Koop Drive, Mandeville (under Tammany Trace water tower)
-
Airport Road Barn, 34783 Grantham College Rd., Slidell
-
Fritchie Barn, 63119 Hwy 1090, Pearl River
It is time for residents to activate their plans to shelter in place. Information for sheltering in place may be found at http://www.stpgov.org/pdf/1334593721.pdf. Please check with Seniors and others in your neighborhood who may need assistance during this time.
The St. Tammany Fishing Pier will be closed Monday, August 27th until the storm passes. Parish Offices will be closed Tuesday, August 28th until the storm passes.
Residents should refrain from putting out garbage for pick up after Monday. Do not put garbage out to the street during a storm. Lids from garbage cans can quickly clog storm-water drains.
Please check with neighbors who may need help securing items in their yards.
Contractors are asked to monitor the storm closely and secure any and all construction materials before storm force winds approach the parish.
No evacuations are being called for St. Tammany Parish at this time. No full scale activation of contra-flow is planned.
St. Tammany Parish will ramp up activation of the Emergency Operations Center tomorrow reaching full activation early Tuesday. This timetable may be altered depending upon the course of the storm.
School Closings
- All public schools closed TUESDAY
- Northlake Christian School in Covington will be closed Tuesday
