Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards declared a state of emergency Tuesday afternoon, in anticipation of Hurricane Delta impacting the state by Friday or Saturday.
"Hurricane Delta is an incredibly dangerous storm that will bring heavy winds, rain and life threatening flooding and storm surge to coastal Louisiana," the governor said. "All of Louisiana’s coast is in the tracking cone, and we are well aware that impacts can be felt outside of the track."
While the forecast calls for Delta to weaken as it travels north, the governor's office is preparing for it to be a category three hurricane on the Saffir-Simpson scale.
"We have seen an active hurricane season already, with a devastating hit in Southwest Louisiana from Hurricane Laura. It would be a mistake for anyone in Louisiana to let down their guard. Be prepared," said Edwards.
The Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness recommends the following supplies:
- A three to five- day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won't spoil
- A supply of face coverings, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes due to COVID-19 concerns
- One change of clothing and footwear per person, and one blanket or sleeping bag per person
- A first aid kit that includes your family's prescription medications
- Emergency tools including a battery-powered radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries
- An extra set of car keys and a credit card, cash or traveler's checks
- Sanitation supplies
- Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members
- An extra pair of glasses
- Important family documents in a portable, waterproof container
- Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels
- Paper and pencil
- Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
- Infant formula and diapers
- Pet food and water
