Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal says the worst of Ida will not hit Louisiana, but the state is ready for what the storm does have to offer.
"Major impacts will likely be to the east of us," Jindal said at a news conference live on WWL Radio.
The governor said there will likely be some flooding and wind damage in Southeast Louisiana. "We expect it to be isolated."
Jindal said four communities have called limited voluntary evacuations.
"St. Bernard Parish has announced a voluntary evacuation for those areas outside the hurricane protection system, beginning today. The Parish is calling through their special needs citizens to assist them with their evacuation efforts," the governor said.
He continues, "Plaquemines Parish has announced a voluntary evacuation for the area from Conoco Phillip to Venice on the West Bank, and White Ditch to Bohemia on the East Bank. The Belle Chase Auditorium on 8398 Hwy. 23 opened at 8 AM to take in evacuees in Plaquemines. Those needing assistance in evacuation there can call 504-274-2470."
"Lafourche Parish has called for a voluntary evacuation for Port Fourchon. Businesses in that area are expected to release workers early today," Jindal noted. "Jefferson Parish has called for a recommended evacuation of all RV Sites and camper trailers in Grand Isle."
Listen to Jindal:
The Governor says State troopers, the National Guard and Wildlife and Fisheries agents will remain on alert will remain on guard, just in case some evacuations are necessary.
Jindal said, "We saw this storm move up to hurricane status over the weekend and thankfully it has dissipated some and was downgraded to a tropical storm today. We are still in a state of emergency and several parishes have closed schools today, due to the threat of flooding in lower coastal areas in the Southeast part of the state. All of our state response agencies are operating on a 24-hour alert system, as we continue to monitor the storm throughout today. We are preparing for the worst, but hoping for the best."
There is also concern that weak limbs could come down and hit power lines. "There may be localized power outages due to falling tree branches," the governor noted.
E-Mail
Print
