Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards declared a state of emergency for Louisiana and advised residents to make preparations to shelter in place as Tropical Storms Laura and Marco continue toward the Gulf of Mexico.
Were each to form a hurricane, it would represent the first time that two such storms would be in the Gulf at the same time. Both are predicted to strengthen to a hurricane in the coming days, however their tracks are still uncertain.
“We are in a unique situation being in the cone of two storms, which could impact different areas of the state in the coming days,” Edwards said. “It should not be lost on any Louisianan that in addition to twin tropical weather threats, we still have to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. It is critical that you include relevant supplies, including face masks and hand sanitizer, in your emergency kits. COVID-19 does not become less of a threat because of tropical weather.”
On Friday, St. Charles Parish President Matt Jewell has declared a State of Emergency in St. Charles Parish in preparation for the storms.
The St. Charles Parish Emergency Operations Center is closely monitoring the track of both storms, which are expected to enter the Gulf of Mexico in the coming days.
The parish advises that residents should begin to prepare their homes for heavy rain and windy conditions by picking up and securing any items around their homes that could cause obstructions to drainage.
Parish communications director Samantha de Castro said Public Works crews continue to clear canals, ditches and catch basins throughout the parish and are ensuring all pump stations are prepared.
Additionally, sandbag locations will be open for St. Charles Parish residents and the East and West Bank Bridge Park as well as all neighborhood locations. Sand and sandbags will be available starting Saturday for St. Charles Parish residents only. Residents are advised to bring ID for parish officials to verify.
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