Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards declared a state of emergency following the damage done by two tornadoes that tore across St. Bernard, Orleans, Jefferson, and St.
Tammany parishes on Tuesday evening.
The Governor will travel to the affected areas to conduct a flyover of the impacted area later today.
“Unfortunately this morning, many of our people are waking up with their lives upside down because of the tragic tornadoes last night in St. Bernard, Orleans, Jefferson, and St. Tammany parishes. Sadly, one person has died in the storm, and we are praying that there are no more fatalities,” Gov. Edwards said. “Thankfully, local and state responders worked through the night to help as many families as they could overnight, and the work will continue into today and the coming weeks. Unfortunately, our people have become all too familiar with rebuilding after tragedy and loss, but it is never easy. My prayers are with everyone who is hurting because of these tornadoes today and I have pledged to local leaders that we will be here to support their long-term recovery efforts.”
The governor’s office urges homeowners to take photos of the damage, make a list of the damaged and lost items and collect any receipts they may have to submit to their insurance companies.
In addition, homeowners can begin self-reporting structural damage to their homes to help the parish, state, and federal authorities better understand the location and severity of the damage impacts.
Storm victims can fill out the survey and submit information to Damage.la.gov.
Speaking at a press conference Wednesday, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell says she too prepares to sign a State of Emergency.
“Out of an abundance of caution, we are declaring…that is being prepared right now for my signature… a State of Emergency to enable access to any federal resources that we will be eligible for,” said Cantrell.