Situation Report - Hurricane Ida Aftermath 09/01/21

Hurricane Ida has brought extended power outages, fuel shortages, and water / sewage disruptions throughout Louisiana. Thousands of stranded citizens and businesses have experienced catastrophic losses in Lafourche, Jefferson, Orleans, St. John, St. James, Terrebonne and other Parishes. Further, and not yet known, are the potential chemical spills that may have occurred. Travel at night is treacherous with no lighting, traffic signals and downed power poles. Total energy restoration times are not yet known but could take up to a month in some areas of the State. Flooded areas are a haven for snakes and alligators and the heat index is over 100 degrees today. The state of Louisiana has set up hurricanerecovery.la.gov for all citizens affected by Ida.   

Citizens and businesses should be aware of a spike in crime, by opportunistic criminals and people who are forced into desperate circumstances. Attempts to enter and leave the City New Orleans should be well-coordinated and planned (Please note a NOLA curfew from 8PM – 6AM is in effect). Extensive lines at working gas stations, water/food shortages, and frantic drivers stuck in traffic should also be taken into account.