City of New Orleans Continues to Monitor Potential Tropical Cyclone Three
The City of New Orleans continues to monitor Potential Tropical Cyclone Three, which is bringing heavy rainfall and gusty winds to the New Orleans area this weekend. New Orleans is currently under a Flash Flood Watch and a Tropical Storm Warning.
Monitoring Potential Tropical Cyclone Three
Potential Tropical Cyclone Three remains disorganized in the central Gulf of Mexico. This system is forecast to slowly strengthen and become a tropical storm before landfall early tomorrow (Saturday) morning. Heavy rainfall is the greatest threat, with 4-8 inches of rain forecast and some locally higher amounts possible. Gusty winds of 35-40 mph are possible today through the weekend. Minor coastal flooding with 1-3 feet of inundation along the open coast and 1-2 feet of inundation along the Lakeshore, with peak water levels this evening into tonight. A few weak and short-lived tornadoes may be a possibility today and tomorrow.
City Prepares for Tropical Weather
The New Orleans Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness has activated the Emergency Operations Center to monitor and prepare for potential impacts from this system. The City continues to provide updates about the steps departments and partner agencies are taking to prepare.
The Orleans Parish Communication District (OPCD) is prepared and ready for the needs of New Orleans residents and visitors during this tropical weather event. The agency is officially in Standby Status and will move to Level 2 Staffing, if necessary. Agency protocols and redundancies have been tested and implemented to ensure OPCD Emergency Communications Specialists and NOLA-311 staff are ready to meet the needs of our residents and visitors should the need arise. 9-1-1 and NOLA-311 services are available, 24/7, by phone and through the newly released AI chat function, JAZZ, at opcdla.gov and nola.gov/311.
Please remember, 9-1-1 is for life-threatening emergencies, only, such as reporting downed power lines and flooded streets. For non-emergency services, like reporting clogged catch basins or missing trash/recycling bins, please call (504) 821-2222 or 3-1-1, or text HELLO to 311YES (311937).
Residents encouraged to prepare for rain and review hurricane plans
The City of New Orleans encourages residents to prepare for heavy rainfall and potential flooding. Secure trash and recycling bins so that they do not topple over and spill trash into the street. Clear debris and leaves from gutters, downspouts, and in front of catch basins so that rain can get to the drain. Call 311 to report clogged catch basins.
This is a reminder that we are at the beginning of hurricane season, and now is the time to review emergency plans, gather emergency supplies, and stay informed. For emergency information, visit ready.nola.gov. To receive emergency alerts by text, email, or phone call, text NOLAREADY to 77295 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.