Latest Update on Tropical Storm Cristobal

The City of New Orleans continues to monitor Cristobal, which is moving northward over the central Gulf of Mexico and is forecast to move inland across Louisiana late Sunday and Monday morning. The outer rain bands have already begun to impact the New Orleans area and will grow in intensity as the storm moves closer. The arrival of tropical storm winds will most likely be Sunday morning but potentially as early as overnight tonight. 

Currently, the greatest impact appears to be potential for heavy rainfall across the area and coastal flooding outside the levee system. Several rounds of heavy rainfall, some well ahead of the storm, are possible. The greatest chance for heavy rain and flash flooding is during the day Sunday and Sunday night. Average overall rainfall totals are expected to be in the 4 to 6 inch range, with locally higher amounts; however, locally higher amounts in excess of 10” are possible in some locations depending where rain bands set up. Minor to moderate coastal flooding will be possible, with an expected surge of 3 to 5 feet in coastal areas outside the levee system and 1 to 3 feet on Lakes Pontchartrain and Maurepas. A few isolated tornadoes will be possible Sunday and Sunday night.

• A Tropical Storm Warning remains in effect for the north central Gulf coast, including New Orleans.
• A Storm Surge Warning remains in effect for Lake Borgne and areas outside of levee protection. This includes Venetian Isles, Lake Catherine, and Irish Bayou but does NOT apply to locations inside the levee system.
• A Flood Watch remains in effect through Tuesday morning.

Residents should be wrapping up their storm preparations today, as conditions will begin to deteriorate late tonight. 

Clean your property and street

• Move vehicles to neutral grounds & sidewalks
• Remove debris from gutters and downspouts.
• Clear debris from catch basins. Report clogged catch basins to 311.
• Prune trees and shrubs.
• Bring outdoor furniture and decorations inside.
• Secure or bring garbage bins inside.
• Move possessions to your highest floor.
• Photograph your property for insurance purposes.

Gather what you’ll need to shelter in place

• Non-perishable food for 3 days
• 3 gallons of water per person
• Manual can opener
• Flashlight & extra batteries
• Matches or lighter
• First Aid Kit
• Week’s supply of prescription medications
• Radio (battery operated or hand crank)
• Books & games
• Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, you should also include face coverings, hand sanitizer, and disinfectants in your home kit to prevent the spread during recovery activities.

Prepare for potential power outages

• Sign up for the special needs registry if you need power for medical equipment.
• Turn your fridge to its lowest temperature.
• Charge electronic devices.
• Preserve cell phone battery life.
• Stay away from low-hanging or downed power lines.