City of New Orleans Monitoring Tropical Storm

The New Orleans Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is monitoring a tropical disturbance in the southwestern area of the Gulf of Mexico. The system is moving toward the north near 8 mph. A turn toward the northeast is expected this afternoon or tonight, and a northeastward motion at a faster forward speed is expected on Friday and Saturday. The system will approach the northern Gulf coast Friday and Friday night, with maximum sustained winds near 35 mph, with higher gusts.

This disturbance is expected to develop into a tropical or subtropical storm later today or tonight, with slow strengthening expected through Friday night. Strongest winds predicted to be during the day on Friday. Winds of 20-30 mph will be possible, with gusts up to 35 mph. Winds should decrease Friday evening into Saturday.

A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect along the coast from the mouth of the Pearl River to Grand Isle, but does not include the New Orleans metro area at this time. A Coastal Flood Advisory is in effect through 9 AM Saturday.

Residents encouraged to prepare for rain and review hurricane plans

The City of New Orleans encourages residents to prepare for the potential of heavy rain later this week. Clear leaves and debris from gutters, downspouts, and in front of catch basins to help rain get to the drain. To reduce risk of street flooding, do not park in front of or on a catch basin, and do not dispose of anything in a catch basin. Call 311 to report catch basins that are not fully functioning. Residents should avoid lifting a catch basin lid or inserting anything into a catch basin.

As always during hurricane season, residents are reminded to review emergency plans, gather emergency supplies, and stay informed. Hurricane preparedness information is available at ready.nola.gov/hurricane. Updates from the City will be provided at ready.nola.gov and on social media @nolaready. Residents can also receive emergency alerts directly from the City by text, email, or phone call. To register for alerts, text your zip code to 888777 or go to ready.nola.gov/alerts.

Residents who might need extra help during an emergency due to medical or mobility needs should sign up for the City’s Special Needs Registry. To register, call 3-1-1 or go to specialneeds.nola.gov.