Dangerous Hurricane Isaias Approaching Gulf Coast; Warnings Issued

Residents in Southeast Louisiana and South Mississippi must prepare immediately for Hurricane Isaias. The National Weather Service in New Orleans reports that Isaias is strengthening and is expected to approach the northern Gulf Coast as a dangerous hurricane later today, October 9, with impacts anticipated from this afternoon into Saturday morning.

A Hurricane Warning and Storm Surge Warning are in effect for Southern Jackson County. A Tropical Storm Warning and Hurricane Watch are in effect for Northern Jackson. Storm Surge Warnings and Tropical Storm Warnings cover Eastern Orleans, Lower Plaquemines, Lower St. Bernard, Southeast St. Tammany, Southern Hancock, and Southern Harrison. Tropical Storm Warnings are also in effect for Northern Hancock and Northern Harrison.

Isaias, currently located about 280 miles south-southeast of New Orleans, is packing 110 mph winds and moving north-northeast at 15 mph. Coastal areas east of Ocean Springs, MS, face significant impacts from life-threatening storm surge and dangerous rainfall flooding. Potential impacts include building damage, washed-out roads, major beach erosion, and moderate damage to marinas. Wind gusts could cause damage to light structures, tree limbs, and lead to scattered power outages, particularly from Ocean Springs eastward in coastal Mississippi.

Charge cell phones now and follow all advice from local officials regarding evacuations. Heed evacuation orders. Do not rely on 911 for immediate response during unsafe conditions. For more information, visit ready.gov, getagameplan.org, or redcross.org. The next update is expected around 11 AM CDT.