Hurricane Ida: Evacuate NOW!
Hurricane Ida, a Category 4 storm, is expected to hit the coast of Louisiana late Saturday night, according to the National Hurricane Center’s most recent report at 11AM on August 23rd, 2021. The storm will cause massive power outages throughout the state, so if you live in any of the potential areas affected by this hurricane it’s time to evacuate now! Start by stocking up on essentials such as water and food, or ask friends and family who live further inland if you can stay with them until the storm passes.
Are you in the path of Hurricane Ida?
The Category 4 Hurricane is expected to hit Louisiana on Saturday, August 24th, with devastatingly powerful winds and widespread power outages. The Red Cross has issued a statement urging people to seek shelter immediately if they live in any of areas that could be affected by Hurricane Ida. This includes counties in southeastern Louisiana from Houma-Thibodaux northward through New Orleans and Baton Rouge as well as Tangipahoa Parish, St. Tammany Parish, Livingston Parish and Washington Parish. Parts of Mississippi may also be affected by evacuation orders due to potential flooding.
What should I do right now?
There is a really good chance that you will lose power in Hurricane Ida. In fact, even if you live hundreds of miles inland, there’s still a chance that a downpour from such a powerful storm could flood your area. So make sure you have emergency food and water on hand just in case. And remember to stay up-to-date with any evacuation orders issued by officials. If your area is evacuated, don’t wait until it’s too late. Get out while you can because there’s always danger when hurricanes hit populated areas.
Flight cancellations have been issued this weekend due to #Ida. Remember to check with your airline for your flight status before leaving home. The FAA does not cancel flights. For general airport delays, visit https://t.co/smgdqJN3td. #HurricaneIda https://t.co/pMLAEmgRWV
— The FAA ✈️ (@FAANews) August 28, 2021
Wait a minute, this sounds like another Katrina!
As you may remember, Hurricane Katrina was a Category 3 storm that hit New Orleans on August 29th, 2005 and caused unprecedented destruction. This weekend’s storm is expected to be much more powerful and will likely reach Category 4 status as it approaches land. If you live in one of Louisiana’s coastal cities or towns, do not wait for an evacuation order before heading inland. The roads will get clogged quickly and there won’t be enough shelters to accommodate everyone who doesn’t have a place to go. If you evacuate now, you can get out ahead of any traffic jams while still giving yourself plenty of time to reach safety before landfall occurs on Saturday night at 10pm CST.
How can I get prepared?
If you live in Louisiana, listen to your local authorities on how to prepare. This storm has been rated a Category 4, which means it will be devastating when it hits landfall. Stock up on water and non-perishable food items, and remember that if you’re in an area where evacuation is advised, you need to leave NOW . If you do not leave right away, you may find yourself trapped and not be able to evacuate at all.
Here are the 10 AM CDT Saturday Key Messages for Hurricane #Ida. Follow the latest at https://t.co/tW4KeFW0gB pic.twitter.com/D70afJvLQm
— National Hurricane Center (@NHC_Atlantic) August 28, 2021
