Baton Rouge mayor talks about possible hurricane threat to Louisiana, weather prep
BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — Leaders from the Mayor’s Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness urge residents to make plans as Tropical Storm Francine is expected to impact Louisiana this week.
Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome said the storm could bring heavy rainfall, strong winds that could cause damage and the possibility of isolated tornadoes during a Monday morning briefing about the storm’s potential impact on East Baton Rouge Parish.
“It’s crucial that all of us take this storm very seriously and begin our preparations immediately,” said Broome.
Local leaders said to prepare a disaster supply kit with essential supplies like food and water, make a plan to be inside a solid structure during the storm and get fuel sooner rather than later. Broome asked that people check on their neighbors and the elderly.
“As we continue our preparations it’s important that all of us stay informed. Please monitor local news channels, listen to weather radio and follow Red Stick Ready on social media for real-time updates and preparedness tips,” said Broome.
East Baton Rouge Parish residents can use the online resource Red Stick Ready for disaster planning information, including guides about building an emergency kit and making a plan to prepare before and after a storm.
Emergency Medical Services Director Michael Denicola reminded residents about the importance of generator safety. He said portable generators need to be used away from houses to avoid potential carbon monoxide poisoning.
The American Red Cross said anyone feeling sick, dizzy or weak while using a generator should get fresh air immediately. Carbon monoxide alarms installed inside a home can alert residents of dangerously high levels.
Baton Rouge Police Chief Thomas Morse said to use the 311 number to report downed trees and flooding so that the 911 line remains open for emergencies. While he urges drivers to stay off the road, he reminds drivers to treat intersections as four-way stops during power outages.
“We are going to have extra staff out there. We’re looking and monitoring the storm waiting to make decisions,” said Morse.
Entergy Louisiana getting ready for potential storm, offers ways for customers to prepare
Sandbag locations in East Baton Rouge Parish
There are eight sand and sandbag locations in the parish. Residents should bring their own shovels.
Airline Highway Fairgrounds
Alsen Park
Cadillac Street Park
Doyles Bayou Park
Hartley-Vey at Gardere Park
Lovett Road Park
Memorial Stadium
Flannery Road Park
Latest News
Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to BRProud.com.