Storm Surge Warning for Lower Plaquemines; Life-Threatening Flooding Expected

A Storm Surge Warning has been issued for Lower Plaquemines, including Port Sulphur, Empire, and Venice, by the National Weather Service (NWS) New Orleans, LA, effective immediately as of October 9 at 4:12 AM CDT. This warning indicates a life-threatening storm surge is possible, with potential inundation of 3-5 feet above ground in surge-prone areas through Saturday morning.

Residents in affected areas should shelter against life-threatening storm surge of greater than 3 feet above ground. Flood preparations and ordered evacuations should be complete, and evacuees should be in shelters well away from storm surge flooding. Remain sheltered in a safe location and do not venture outside.

Wind speeds are forecast at 25-35 mph with gusts up to 65 mph. Expect limited damage to porches, awnings, carports, sheds, and unanchored mobile homes. Some large tree limbs may break, and a few trees may snap or uproot. Scattered power and communications outages are possible. Move to safe shelter before the wind becomes hazardous. No significant additional rainfall or tornadoes are forecast. This alert is effective until October 9 at 12:15 PM UTC. For more information, visit gohsep.la.gov/emergency.