Jefferson Parish President John Young has declared a State of Emergency for Jefferson Parish in anticipation of the effects of Tropical Storm Isaac.  Here is the statement from the president's office:

Jefferson Parish Emergency Management is closely monitoring Tropical Storm Isaac.  The National Weather Service reports Tropical Storm Isaac continues to strengthen and likely will continue a westward track in the Gulf of Mexico.

A Hurricane Watch currently is in effect for all areas of Southeast Louisiana, including areas of upper and lower Jefferson Parish.

All citizens are reminded to prepare now your families, homes, and property for this weather event.

The Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority-West (SLFPA-W) will begin closing non-essential flood gates on the West Bank in anticipation of strong southerly winds and high tides associated with Tropical Storm Isaac.  This is the first step in a process that will ensure implementation of the Authority's flood protection program.  As the storm progresses, there will be additional closures as the Flood Authority works with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Substantial rain, hurricane force winds, and tidal surge are expected as Isaac is expected to intensify to a Category 2 hurricane when it makes landfall, which at this point, is projected to be 7:00am CST Wednesday, August 29, 2012 near Biloxi, MS.

Residents in low lying areas of coastal Jefferson Parish outside levee protection such as Lafitte, Barataria, and Crown Point should pay close attention to news reports in the event storm surge levels warrant emergency measures or evacuations.

Tropical Storm Isaac may produce flooding in low-lying areas. Citizens are asked to help reduce the chance of street flooding by clearing debris from their streets and drains around their property; such debris impedes water flow into the drainage system. Parish Ordinance Section 36-188 prohibits motorists from traveling on flooded streets, which may increase the possibility of structural flooding due to wake action caused by moving vehicles.

Jefferson Parish Public Works crews will be on stand-by to respond as needed and will be available to dispatch barricades to close flooded streets if necessary.  All pump stations requiring manning will be fully staffed for the duration until the threat of this weather event is over.

To receive weather and emergency bulletins visit our JPALERT website at: www.jpalert.com .