Cantrell: Big storm inbound, batten down the hatches

Cantrell: Big storm coming, batten down the hatches.
Photo credit Getty_Images_Jaimie_Tuchman

Mayor LaToya Cantrell has issused the following statement regarding a severe storm forecast for New Orleans and the area:  

Strong to severe storms are forecast to move through New Orleans in the afternoon and evening of Sunday, April 12. Residents are encouraged to prepare for potentially severe weather and to stay weather aware.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has deemed New Orleans to be in an enhanced risk area for severe weather. Potential for tornadoes or strong straight-line winds are the most significant threats from this system, but brief heavy rain, lightning, and hail will be possible as well. Currently, the most likely timing appears to be during the late afternoon to evening on Sunday, between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. The risk for street flooding is low, and overall rain totals are forecast to stay under one inch for the New Orleans area. However, as always, locally higher amounts will be possible.

A wind advisory will be in effect 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday. A coastal flood advisory will be in effect 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday, with tides one to two feet above normal. The NWS may issue additional watches and warnings leading up to tomorrow's weather event.

The New Orleans Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (NOHSEP) is monitoring severe weather and is in close communication with the NWS and the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans. The City's Emergency Operations Center remains activated for the COVID-19 response and will also be monitoring the severe weather threat. All major drainage pumps are available for service and all staffed pump stations will have operators on duty throughout the event.

Entergy crews are prepared to respond to any potential outages. As a reminder, customers can report an outage one of three ways: text OUT to 368374, report it on the Entergy app, or call 1-800-9OUTAGE. Customers can also get the latest information through entergystormcenter.com.

"The Stay Home Order remains in effect," said NOHSEP Director Collin Arnold. "It's especially important on Easter Sunday that residents not only stay home but also stay indoors during potentially severe weather."

Residents are encouraged to review storm safety tips and to make preparations ahead of Sunday's weather.
  • Review storm safety tips to ensure your family knows what to do during severe weather.
  • Have multiple ways to receive emergency alerts. Sign up for NOLA Ready emergency alerts. 
  • During severe thunderstorms, seek shelter from wind and lightning.
  • In the case of a tornado warning, go to an interior room on the lowest level. Stay away from windows, doors and outside walls.
  • Never drive through flooded areas. Call 9-1-1 to report major street flooding.

Preparing your home and neighborhood before a storm can help reduce potential damage.

  • Remove debris from gutters and downspouts.
  • Clear debris from in front of catch basins. Don’t lift a catch basin lid.
  • Prune trees and shrubs.
  • Bring outdoor furniture and decorations inside.
  • Secure or bring garbage bins inside.

As always WWL-First News following the weather closely and is prepared to respond to any breaking news reports stemming from this meteorological event.