URGENT: Storm Surge Warning for Lower Plaquemines, Prepare Now!

A Storm Surge Warning has been issued for Lower Plaquemines, including Port Sulphur, Empire, and Venice, effective immediately. The National Weather Service in New Orleans warns of a danger of life-threatening inundation from rising water moving inland from the coastline within the next 36 hours. Evacuation efforts and flood preparations should be brought to completion before conditions become unsafe. If evacuation orders are given for your area, leave immediately.

Peak storm surge inundation could reach 3-5 feet above ground in surge-prone areas, with a window of concern from Friday morning until Saturday morning. This could lead to significant impacts, including damage to buildings, weakened escape routes, and major shoreline erosion.

A Tropical Storm Warning is also in effect. Peak winds of 25-35 mph with gusts to 50 mph are possible. Preparations for significant wind damage should be underway, including securing loose objects. Expect some damage to roofing and siding, and potential power outages. Additional rainfall of 1-3 inches is expected, but the threat of significant flooding rain or tornadoes is low. This warning was issued on October 7 at 9:59 PM CDT and expires October 8 at 6:00 AM UTC. For more information, visit https://gohsep.la.gov/emergency.