Jefferson Parish residents face two weather threats Wednesday as Tropical Storm Bertha moves through coastal Louisiana while dangerous heat continues across the area.
The National Weather Service forecasts minor to moderate storm surge flooding and tropical storm-force winds along coastal portions of southeast Louisiana on Wednesday, July 22. A tropical storm warning is in effect for the New Orleans metro area.
A few storms could also produce locally heavy rain, but forecasters expect that threat to remain limited to the immediate southeast Louisiana coast.
Jefferson Parish officials are asking residents to secure trash cans, outdoor furniture and other loose objects that could become dangerous debris in strong winds. Tipper carts can blow into streets and sidewalks when winds reach 35 mph.
Residents should stay indoors and away from windows during severe weather. If a tornado warning is issued, people should shelter in an interior room on the ground floor.
Drivers should also avoid streets that commonly flood, including roads beneath bridges and overpasses.
Jefferson Parish Ordinance Section 36-188 prohibits motorists from driving on flooded streets. Moving vehicles can create wakes that push water toward homes and businesses, increasing the risk of structural flooding.
Public Works crews have been cleaning catch basins to help water enter the drainage system. Officials are asking residents to remove debris from streets and drains near their homes.
The parish reported that 196 of its 198 drainage pumps are in service. Portable pumps are also available if needed, and crews will staff all pump stations throughout the storm.
Emergency operations center remains open
The Jefferson Parish Emergency Operations Center will remain staffed 24 hours a day throughout Tropical Storm Bertha. Residents who need assistance can call 504-349-5360.
Officials are asking residents to remain alert, charge their mobile devices and use several ways to receive weather warnings, including television and radio.
Residents can receive Jefferson Parish emergency alerts by texting JPALERT for English alerts or JPNOTICIAS for Spanish alerts to 888-777.
Location-specific hourly forecasts are available through the National Weather Service. Parish updates are available through the Jefferson Parish website and on social media at @JeffParishGov.
READ MORE:Bertha threatens coastal communities in Jefferson Parish as extreme heat grips the entire region
