Parish to open community center as shelter today

St. Charles Parish spokesman Tristan Babin said the Edward A. Dufresne Community in Luling will be open to the public as a shelter beginning at 4 p.m. today.

“We are opening the shelter to service our residents who may have not adequate or secure housing,” Babin said.

St. Charles Parish is under hurricane and surge warnings as Nate, now upgraded to a hurricane, fast approaches Southeast Louisiana, according to the National Weather Service (NWS)

Babin said the parish does not anticipate issuing an evacuation notice for the storm.

Residents using the shelter, at 274 Judge Edward Dufresne Parkway, are advised to bring bedding, pillows, medications, towels, baby supplies and any toiletries. Please limit to one bag per person.

Parish officials are also urging residents to monitor weather reports and prepare for the storm by clearing drains and ditches around their homes and making sure all items around their property be picked up or brought inside.

Residents can report any debris piles or blocked culverts to EOC at (985) 783-5050.

According to the National Weather Service (NWS), storm surge is the main concern in the parish with anticipated affected locations including Norco, Des Allemands and Boute for potential storm surge. Life-threatening surge is possible with 3 to 5 feet possible with greatest threat anticipated through early Sunday evening.

The latest forecast puts winds at or below tropical storm force with peak winds anticipated at 15 to 25 mph and gusts of up to 35 mph.

However,NWS advises residents should plan for winds up to 73 mph at this time with potential damage to roofs and siding materials, as well as to porches, awnings, carports and sheds.

St. Charles Parish is among the 17 parishes included in Gov. John Bel Edwards’ Pre-Disaster Emergency Declaration that President Donald Trump approved on Friday.

This allows the state to easily access federal resources if they become necessary as the storm approaches.

 

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