City Monitors Beta, Residents Encouraged to Prepare for Heavy Rain and Coastal Flooding

The City of New Orleans continues to monitor Tropical Storm Beta, which is currently forecast to approach the Texas coast and move inland Monday or Monday night. Residents are encouraged to prepare for heavy rain, wind, and coastal flooding outside the levee system. Text BETANOLA to 888777 for updates from the City of New Orleans.

Rain

Rainy weather is expected to persist for much of this week, with approximately three to five inches of rainfall currently expected through Friday. A band of heavy rain detached from Beta is expected to develop across the area with the heaviest rain likely Tuesday and Tuesday night. For this reason, the City of New Orleans will allow neutral ground parking beginning at 6 p.m. tonight and until further notice. Please do not block intersections, streetcar tracks, or bike paths.

Wind

A Wind Advisory is in effect until 7 p.m., with gusty winds in the 20 to 30 mph range possible. Residents should secure trash bins, outdoor decor, and other loose items that could become projectiles.

Coastal Flooding

Prolonged onshore winds are causing coastal flooding outside the levee system. A Coastal Flood Warning is in effect for those areas, with water levels of one to three feet above normal possible now through the middle of the week. Residents in Venetian Isles, Lake Catherine, and Irish Bayou should stay weather aware and be ready for coastal flooding.

Clean your property and street

• 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.
• Do not place garbage/recycling carts curbside any earlier than 4:00 p.m. on the day before a scheduled collection.
• Garbage/recycling carts should be promptly removed from the curb and secured on private property once collections are completed.