Hurricane Isaias Intensifies: Storm Surge, Wind, and Flood Threats for Coastal Areas

Coastal residents in Lower St. Bernard, Southeast St. Tammany, Eastern Orleans, Lower Plaquemines, Southern Hancock, Southern Harrison, and Southern Jackson parishes and counties must prepare immediately as Hurricane Isaias strengthens. The National Weather Service (NWS) New Orleans reports that Isaias, currently packing 80 mph winds, is expected to bring life-threatening storm surge, dangerous winds, and significant rainfall beginning Friday afternoon and continuing into Saturday morning.

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

Expect significant impacts east of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, including considerable roof damage, downed trees, and widespread power outages. Coastal areas west of Ocean Springs and extreme coastal Southeast Louisiana from the Mississippi River mouth eastward face dangerous winds and significant surge. Storm surge of 3 to 5 feet is expected for coastal Southeast Louisiana and 5 to 7 feet for coastal Mississippi east of Ocean Springs.

The NWS advises completing all preparations now. Heed all evacuation orders from local authorities. Ensure cell phones are charged. Do not rely on 911 during unsafe conditions. Visitors should identify their city and county to follow local news updates. The next update from NWS New Orleans is expected around 11 AM CDT.