Louisiana Unveils 2026 Hurricane Emergency Plan Ahead of Storm Season

BATON ROUGE, La. -- The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) announced refreshed emergency response protocols Friday, emphasizing updated evacuation procedures as Hurricane Preparedness Week kicks off today, May 3, through May 9. Officials warn of an above-normal 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, running June 1 to Nov. 30, urging residents to stock a three-to-five-day supply of water -- one gallon per person daily -- non-perishable food, first aid kits with prescriptions, battery-powered radios, flashlights, extra batteries, clothing and blankets.

GOHSEP stresses personal responsibility, advising families to develop game plans and assist elderly or disabled neighbors in coastal parishes like Jefferson, Plaquemines and Terrebonne, long vulnerable to storm surges. During major evacuations, the Louisiana Emergency Alert System will broadcast orders across radio and TV stations in affected areas, coordinating with state agencies for real-time public information. Homeowners should start by photographing roofs, gutters and drainage for insurance claims, organizing a storm folder with policies, contacts and evacuation routes, then addressing vulnerabilities before June 1.

The energy sector, critical to Louisiana's Gulf Coast economy, is bracing alongside residents, while partners like AARP Louisiana and the Power Coalition for Equity and Justice amplify resources for underserved communities in New Orleans and Shreveport. Red Cross volunteers echo the call: listen to local officials on evacuation timing to avoid past tragedies like Ida's deadly stalls on I-10. Recent FEMA aid for eight north Louisiana parishes -- Caldwell, Catahoula, Jackson, Lincoln, Madison, Union, Webster and Winn -- after January's severe winter storms underscores the state's ongoing recovery readiness.