Flood Protection Authority East to close gates for Tropical Storm Marco

In preparation of Tropical Storm Marco, the Flood Protection Authority East is set to close several gates within the flood protection system. A total of 45 land-based gates will close by 10:00 PM tonight, followed by the Surge Barrier located in New Orleans East around midnight. We will close additional gates as needed. Currently, Lakeshore Drive is closed and will remain closed throughout the duration of both Tropical Storm Marco and Tropical Storm Laura. The roadway is expected to re-open the evening of Thursday, August 27th. Additional gate closures for Tropical Storm Laura will be based on the track and predicted impact of the storm.

According to the National Weather Service, Tropical Storm Marco is about 325 miles South of the mouth of the Mississippi River and is expected to make landfall Monday. The storm has maximum sustained winds of 70 mph and is predicted to bring heavy rain and strong wind gusts. Tropical Storm Laura is about 70 miles Northwest of Port Au Prince, Haiti with maximum sustained winds of 50 mph. The Gulf Coast is expected to feel the impacts of Laura beginning Wednesday.

Please be sure to sign up for gate closure alerts and updates via the FPA-East Everbridge Alerts System. Text “FLOODGATE” to 333111 or visit www.floodauthority.org for more information.