Storm Surge Watch Issued for Lower Plaquemines; Evacuate If Ordered

A Storm Surge Watch has been issued for Lower Plaquemines, including Port Sulphur, Empire, and Venice, by the National Weather Service (NWS) in New Orleans. This alert, issued at 3:54 PM CDT on October 7, indicates a potential for life-threatening storm surge flooding and significant wind impacts.

Residents in affected areas should prepare for storm surge flooding of greater than 3 feet above ground. The NWS advises assembling disaster supplies and knowing your evacuation route. If evacuation orders are issued for your area, you must leave immediately. Failure to heed these orders may result in loss of life. The window of concern for storm surge is from Friday morning until Saturday morning.

Life-threatening wind of equivalent to Category 1 or 2 hurricane force is possible, with peak wind forecasts of 25-35 mph and gusts up to 55 mph. Potential wind impacts include considerable roof damage, severe damage to mobile homes, and widespread power and communications outages. Efforts to protect life and property should be rigorously underway, and preparations must be completed before the wind becomes hazardous.

For more information, visit gohsep.la.gov/emergency. This watch is effective immediately and expires October 8, 2026 at 12:00 AM UTC.