GOHSEP Urges Caution due to Potential Severe Weather
BATON ROUGE – The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) is urging everyone to be aware of potentially dangerous weather conditions across the state. Rain, wind, hail and tornadoes are a threat for certain regions. Many people are traveling this week due to the holidays. Be aware of the weather and traffic conditions on your route before you hit the road.
“There has been an increase in traffic on our interstate systems and highways during the past several days,” said GOHSEP Director Kevin Davis. “Make sure you take all precautions to deal with any dangerous weather conditions that could impact your travels. Get a game plan. Make sure you have an emergency kit with you to deal with any delays or weather related problems.”
Louisiana State Police (LSP) say taking simple precautions such as never driving while impaired, fatigued, or distracted and always ensuring all occupants are properly restrained can often mean the difference between life and death.
National Weather Service- New Orleans indicates there is a MARGINAL to SLIGHT RISK of severe weather today across southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi. The risk of severe weather increases farther to the north, with the greatest threat over the middle Mississippi River Valley. For southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi, the primary threats will be damaging wind gusts and brief tornadoes and the threat will continue through this afternoon. Remember to stay weather aware today and have a way to receive warnings if they are issued for your area.
National Weather Service- Shreveport has already issued a Tornado Watch until 1:00 pm. Hail up to one and half inches in diameter, damaging winds and tornadoes are possible. The threat for severe weather will remain in some areas through this evening.
National Weather Service- Lake Charles indicates showers and thunderstorms are possible this afternoon. The threat of severe weather in southwest Louisiana has decreased since Tuesday.
National Weather Service- Jackson covers much of northeast Louisiana. That office indicates showers and thunderstorms have already started across the region. More significant severe weather is expected later today.
Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) travel information, including road closures due to crashes or construction, can be obtained by dialing 511 from any phone in the state or by visiting www.511la.org.
You can receive emergency alerts on most smartphones and tablets by downloading the new ALERT FM App. It is free for basic service. You can also download the new Louisiana Emergency Preparedness Guide and find other important information at www.getagameplan.org.