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Closure of Central Catholic, other diocese schools extended to Monday-Thursday

Sun, 08/23/2020 - 12:50pm

Due to the expected landfall of Hurricane Marco on Monday, all Catholic schools in the Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux, including Central Catholic, will be closed Monday through Thrusday.

Parents are asked to please continue to monitor their email, text messages and social media for updates and relevant information over the coming days as we continue to monitor the approach of Tropical Storm Laura.

Nicholls State calls off classes next week

Sun, 08/23/2020 - 12:37pm

Nicholls State University is canceling classes for the entire week due to the approach of potential Hurricanes Laura and Marco, and closing the university for faculty and staff from Monday through Wednesday. Employees are advised to standby for guidance for the remainder of the week.

The Nicholls State University Emergency Preparedness Committee has initiated a Phase III alert as the National Weather Service places the Bayou Region under a Hurricane Watch. Marco is expected to make landfall Monday afternoon as a Category 1 hurricane, with Laura’s expected landfall on Wednesday afternoon as a Category 1 hurricane. The storms are likely to bring heavy rain and winds to the Bayou Region.

Although students are not being evacuated from campus, residence hall students with the ability to return home are encouraged to leave immediately to avoid driving in inclement weather. Students who cannot return home may remain in the residence halls and will shelter in place. Food service for all on-campus residents will continue, and residence hall staff will notify students of any service changes.

The Committee initiated the alert in accordance with the university’s Hurricane Emergency Plan, posted at nicholls.edu/hurricane. A Phase III alert is issued when storms in the Gulf of Mexico are projected to make landfall around South Louisiana and the NWS places south Louisiana under a Hurricane warning. The University Emergency Preparedness Committee will now track path, speed and projected storm surge of the storms and initiate any further changes.

All Nicholls departments will refer to the Hurricane Emergency Plan and begin enacting internal Phase III storm preparations at this time. The community will be notified if Phase IV storm preparations are implemented.

Follow www.nicholls.edu and Nicholls social media channels for any updates.

49 new COVID cases, three deaths since Thursday

Sun, 08/23/2020 - 12:33pm

The growth of new COVID-19 cases continues to slow, but the death toll keeps rising, according to numbers from the Louisiana Office of Public Health.

Between midday Thursday and midday Sunday, St. Mary Parish has 17 new COVID cases for a total of 1,720 since the pandemic began. The death toll remained at 65.

Two new deaths were reported in St. Martin for a pandemic total of 51. Twenty-seven new COVID cases there run the total to 1,836.

Assumption has had five new cases since Thursday for a total of 631. One new death was reported in Assumption for a total of 21.

Statewide:

--2,122 new cases have been recorded since Thursday for a pandemic total of 142,943.

--109 new deaths raise the statewide toll to 4,605.

--146 fewer COVID-positive people were hospitalized Sunday for a total of 941.

--26 fewer people are on ventilators for a total of 152.
1

Parish president calls for voluntary evacuation of lower St. Martin

Sun, 08/23/2020 - 12:12pm

Due to impending tropical storms Laura and Marco, and the potential for flooding, Parish President Chester Cedars has requested a voluntary evacuation for residents in the Stephensville/Belle River area of lower St. Martin Parish.

The voluntary evacuation is necessary to afford any and all residents ample opportunity to evacuate the area because of the potential for high water conditions, a parish government press release said.

For anyone needing further information or assistance, please contact the St. Martin Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness by calling 337-394-2808.

School Board offices will be closed through Thursday

Sun, 08/23/2020 - 12:07pm

The approach of a historic set of two tropical storms into Louisiana has led to a decision to close all St. Mary School Board offices and schools Monday through Thursday. All teacher trainings and meetings will be rescheduled, and information provided in the coming days.

"The safety of our students and employees remains our main priority and we ask that everyone stay connected to weather updates and take all precautions as advised," Superintendent Teresa Bagwell said.

Cleco says it's ready for the storms

Sun, 08/23/2020 - 12:05pm

Cleco says it's prepared for Tropical Storms Laura and Marco. which are expected to make landfall over Louisiana early this week.

“Cleco prepares year-round for severe weather events, and hurricane season is no different,” said James Lass, director of distribution operations and emergency management. “Our storm teams are activated, and we are securing additional resources and equipment. We are prepared.”

In addition to Cleco personnel, the company has secured 700 line mechanics and approximately 350 vegetation specialists, made arrangements for logistics like lodging and fuel, and has specialized equipment like drones, off-road and high water equipment ready for deployment.

“While we are ready to respond, we have had to put additional safety measures in place amid the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Lass. “To help our crews, we ask our customers to be mindful of social distancing and make every effort to avoid work zones.”

For additional information on how Cleco is preparing, follow the company on Facebook @ClecoPower.

Glencoe Charter School

Sun, 08/23/2020 - 11:41am

V. B. Glencoe Charter School has made the decision to close schools Monday - Wednesday for all face-to-face and virtual learning. The staff will make another determination as Laura draws closer as to if there is a need to extend the days.

Local hurricane information for St. Mary, St. Martin

Sun, 08/23/2020 - 6:13am

National Weather Service at Lake Charles
523 AM CDT Sun Aug 23 2020

This product covers Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas

**HURRICANE AND STORM SURGE WARNINGS ISSUED FOR PORTIONS OF THE
NORTHERN GULF COAST**

NEW INFORMATION
---------------

* CHANGES TO WATCHES AND WARNINGS:
- None

* CURRENT WATCHES AND WARNINGS:
- A Storm Surge Watch and Hurricane Watch are in effect for
Iberia, St. Mary, and Vermilion
- A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Avoyelles, Lafayette,
Lower St. Martin, St. Landry, and Upper St. Martin
- A Storm Surge Watch is in effect for East Cameron and West
Cameron

* STORM INFORMATION:
- About 570 miles southeast of Cameron LA or about 490 miles
south-southeast of Morgan City LA
- 23.7N 87.0W
- Storm Intensity 70 mph
- Movement North-northwest or 335 degrees at 13 mph

SITUATION OVERVIEW
------------------

Tropical Storm Marco is forecast to continue to move north-northwest
today reaching the central Gulf of Mexico by this evening. A gradual
turn toward the west with a decrease in forward speed is expected
after Marco moves inland on Monday and on Tuesday.

Data from an Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunter aircraft indicate
that the maximum sustained winds have increased to near 70 mph with
higher gusts. Some strengthening is anticipated and Marco is
forecast to become a hurricane today. Marco is expected to be at or
near hurricane strength when it approaches the northern Gulf Coast
on Monday. Rapid weakening is expected after Marco moves inland.

POTENTIAL IMPACTS
-----------------

* WIND:
Prepare for life-threatening wind having possible extensive impacts
across South Central Louisiana. Potential impacts in this area
include:
- Considerable roof damage to sturdy buildings, with some having
window, door, and garage door failures leading to structural
damage. Mobile homes severely damaged, with some destroyed.
Damage accentuated by airborne projectiles. Locations may be
uninhabitable for weeks.
- Many large trees snapped or uprooted along with fences and
roadway signs blown over.
- Some roads impassable from large debris, and more within urban
or heavily wooded places. Several bridges and access routes
impassable.
- Large areas with power and communications outages.

Also, prepare for dangerous wind having possible limited to
significant impacts across Central Louisiana.

* SURGE:
Prepare for life-threatening surge having possible significant
impacts across South Central Louisiana. Potential impacts in
this area include:
- Areas of inundation with storm surge flooding accentuated by
waves. Damage to non-elevated structures is possible.
- Sections of escape routes and secondary roads become weakened
or washed out, especially in usually vulnerable low spots.
- Major beach erosion with heavy surf breaching dunes. Strong and
numerous rip currents.
- Moderate damage to marinas, docks, and piers. Several small
craft broken away from moorings, especially in unprotected
anchorages.

Elsewhere across Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas, little to
no impact is anticipated.

* FLOODING RAIN:
Prepare for locally hazardous rainfall flooding having possible
limited impacts across Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas.
Potential impacts include:
- Localized rainfall flooding may prompt a few evacuations.
- Rivers and tributaries may quickly rise with swifter currents.
Small streams, creeks, canals, and ditches may become swollen
and overflow in spots.
- Flood waters can enter a few structures, especially in usually
vulnerable spots. A few places where rapid ponding of water
occurs at underpasses, low-lying spots, and poor drainage
areas. Several storm drains and retention ponds become
near-full and begin to overflow. Some brief road and bridge
closures.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS
----------------------------------

* EVACUATIONS:
Listen to local official for recommended preparedness actions,
including possible evacuation. If ordered to evacuate, do so
immediately.

For those not under evacuation orders, assess the risk from wind,
falling trees, and flooding at your location. If you decide to move,
relocate to a safer location nearby. If you do not relocate, help
keep roadways open for those under evacuation orders.

* OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION:
Now is the time to check your emergency plan and emergency supplies
kit and take necessary actions to protect your family and secure your
home or business.

When making safety and preparedness decisions, do not focus on the
exact forecast track since hazards such as flooding rain, damaging
wind gusts, storm surge, and tornadoes extend well away from the
center of the storm.

If you live in a place particularly vulnerable to flooding, such as
near the ocean or a large inland lake, in a low-lying or poor
drainage area, in a valley, or near an already swollen river, plan to
move to safe shelter on higher ground.

* ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION:
- For information on appropriate preparations see ready.gov
- For information on creating an emergency plan see getagameplan.org
- For additional disaster preparedness information see redcross.org

NEXT UPDATE
-----------

The next local statement will be issued by the National Weather
Service in Lake Charles LA around 11 am, or sooner if conditions
warrant.

5 A.M. SUNDAY: Marco still headed for SE Louisiana landfall

Sun, 08/23/2020 - 6:03am
Marco landfall expected midday Monday, Laura early Thursday

FROM THE NATIONAL HURRICANE CENTER

TROPICAL STORM MARCO

Tropical Storm Marco Discussion Number 12
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL AL142020
400 AM CDT Sun Aug 23 2020

Thunderstorm bursts continue to fire near the center of Marco, then
weaken an hour or two later due to persistent shear. Overall, the
storm's appearance hasn't changed with nearly all of the deep
convection very near or northeast of the center. Although the
satellite presentation is somewhat lacking at the moment, the
earlier Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunter mission found believable
SFMR values to 60 kt, so that value remains the initial wind speed.

The intensity forecast remains tricky with Marco due to its small
size and marginal environment. There are some models that briefly
relax the shear today, which will likely be enough of a change to
allow Marco to reach hurricane strength. Later on, while the
cyclone is near the coast of Louisiana, the shear is forecast to
increase, but it is unknown exactly how close to landfall this will
occur. Our best forecast at this time is that the strongest winds
will be confined to the coast, and that Marco will then weaken
faster than most hurricanes do over the swamps of Louisiana due to
the shear. No significant changes were made to the intensity
forecast, which is very close to the model consensus. The new
forecast necessitates the issuance of hurricane warnings for
portions of southeastern Louisiana.

Marco continues moving north-northwestward or 335/11 kt. This
general track and speed is likely today, with a turn to the
northwest and decrease in forward speed expected as the storm
weakens late Monday. While the track forecast is essentially
unchanged from the previous one, there is still a fair bit of
spread in the model guidance, likely tied to the intensity
forecast. The stronger guidance is near or northeast of the new
model consensus, due to the upper-level flow, and the NHC forecast
leans in that direction, close to the previous official prediction.

Key Messages:

1. Hurricane conditions, life-threatening storm surge, and heavy
rainfall are expected from Marco along portions of the Gulf Coast
beginning on Monday, and Hurricane and Storm Surge Warnings have
been issued. Interests in these areas should follow any advice
given by local government officials.

2. Tropical Storm Laura could bring additional storm surge,
rainfall, and wind impacts to portions of the U.S. Gulf Coast by the
middle of next week. This could result in a prolonged period of
hazardous weather for areas that may also be affected by Marco.
Interests there should monitor the progress of Marco and Laura and
updates to the forecast during the next few days.

FORECAST POSITIONS AND MAX WINDS

INIT 23/0900Z 23.7N 87.0W 60 KT 70 MPH
12H 23/1800Z 25.3N 87.6W 65 KT 75 MPH
24H 24/0600Z 27.3N 88.6W 65 KT 75 MPH
36H 24/1800Z 29.0N 89.7W 65 KT 75 MPH
48H 25/0600Z 29.9N 91.5W 45 KT 50 MPH...INLAND
60H 25/1800Z 30.5N 93.1W 30 KT 35 MPH...INLAND
72H 26/0600Z 31.0N 95.0W 25 KT 30 MPH...INLAND
96H 27/0600Z...DISSIPATED

$$
Forecaster Blake

TROPICAL STORM LAURA
NWS National Hurricane Center Miami FL AL132020
500 AM EDT Sun Aug 23 2020

Laura has maintained an impressive convective pattern despite the
center being located over extreme south-central Dominican Republic.
Numerous cloud tops of -85C to -90C have been noted over the
Barahona peninsula, an indication that extremely heavy rainfall has
been occurring there. The center of Laura passed over or very near
Santo Domingo around 0430Z based on a noticeable wind shift that
was measured at the international airport. Laura's outflow pattern
has also continue to improve in all quadrants. The initial intensity
of 40 kt is based on earlier scatterometer and aircraft data, along
with surface observations along the north coast of the Dominican
Republic.

Laura has continued to move west-northwestward and the initial
motion estimate is now 285/16 kt. There has been a significant
westward shift in the latest NHC model guidance, which appears to be
due to most of the global models taking the center of Laura farther
south over central or southern Hispaniola rather than emerging it
off the north coast of Haiti like the GFS is and has been
forecasting. Given that the most intense convection has persisted
along the southern coast of Hispaniola, that is where the most
likely area that a low-level and/or mid-level circulation is most
probable to develop or persist. As a result, the new NHC track
forecast favors a more southerly and westerly track solution
similar to the preponderance of the track guidance. However, the
new forecast track has not been shifted as far to the left as the
consensus models in the event that the models shift back to the
north. However, the latter scenario is appearing less likely based
observed satellite trends since the previous advisory.

Little if any significant change in strength is expected due to
Laura moving pretty much down the spine of Hispaniola and Cuba
during the the next 36 hours, with the strongest wind likely
remaining over water in the northeast quadrant where the pressure
gradient will be the tightest between the cyclone and the Bermuda
High. By 48 hours and continuing until landfall, Laura is forecast
to remain in a low shear and very favorable upper-level outflow
environment while passing of extremely warm SSTs near 31C. This
should allow for significant strengthening to occur once the cyclone
regains a decent inner core after exiting Cuba. The new NHC
intensity forecast is a blend of the intensity forecasts by the GFS
and ECMWF global models and the corrected consensus models HCCA and
FSSE.

Key Messages:

1. Tropical storm conditions are expected across portions of the
Dominican Republic and Haiti, the Turks and Caicos, the
southeastern Bahamas, and Cuba through Monday. Heavy rainfall is
likely across these areas and could cause mudslides and flash and
urban flooding.

2. Tropical storm conditions are possible the central Bahamas and
Andros Island tonight and Monday, and in the Florida Keys on
Monday.

3. The details of the long-range track and intensity forecasts
remain uncertain since Laura is forecast to move near or over
portions of the Greater Antilles through Monday. However, Laura is
forecast to strengthen over the Gulf of Mexico and could bring storm
surge, rainfall, and wind impacts to portions of the U.S. Gulf Coast
by the middle of next week. This could result in a prolonged period
of hazardous weather for areas that are likely to be affected by
Tropical Storm Marco earlier in the week. Interests there should
monitor the progress of Laura and Marco and updates to the forecast
during the next few days.

FORECAST POSITIONS AND MAX WINDS

INIT 23/0900Z 18.8N 70.9W 40 KT 45 MPH
12H 23/1800Z 19.8N 73.7W 40 KT 45 MPH...OVER WATER
24H 24/0600Z 20.9N 77.5W 40 KT 45 MPH...INLAND
36H 24/1800Z 22.2N 81.1W 40 KT 45 MPH...INLAND
48H 25/0600Z 23.5N 84.2W 45 KT 50 MPH...OVER WATER
60H 25/1800Z 24.9N 87.0W 60 KT 70 MPH
72H 26/0600Z 26.4N 89.4W 75 KT 85 MPH
96H 27/0600Z 29.9N 92.5W 85 KT 100 MPH
120H 28/0600Z 35.0N 91.4W 30 KT 35 MPH...INLAND

$$
Forecaster Stewart

UPDATED 10 P.M.: Hurricane, storm surge watch for St. Mary,

Sat, 08/22/2020 - 6:01pm

Storm Surge Watch

STORM SURGE WATCH
NWS LAKE CHARLES LA
1008 PM CDT SAT AUG 22 2020

St. Mary-

...HURRICANE WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT...
...STORM SURGE WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT...

* LOCATIONS AFFECTED
- Morgan City
- Patterson
- Franklin

* WIND
- LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Equivalent Cat 1 Hurricane force wind
- Peak Wind Forecast: 55-75 mph with gusts to 100 mph
- Window for Tropical Storm force winds: Monday morning until
early Thursday morning
- Window for Hurricane force winds: Wednesday afternoon until
Wednesday evening

- THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST
UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for wind 74
to 110 mph
- The wind threat has remained nearly steady from the
previous assessment.
- PLAN: Plan for life-threatening wind of equivalent CAT 1 or
2 hurricane force.
- PREPARE: Remaining efforts to protect life and property
should be urgently completed. Prepare for considerable wind
damage.
- ACT: Move to safe shelter before the wind becomes hazardous.

- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Extensive
- Considerable roof damage to sturdy buildings, with some
having window, door, and garage door failures leading to
structural damage. Mobile homes severely damaged, with some
destroyed. Damage accentuated by airborne projectiles.
Locations may be uninhabitable for weeks.
- Many large trees snapped or uprooted along with fences and
roadway signs blown over.
- Some roads impassable from large debris, and more within
urban or heavily wooded places. Several bridges and access
routes impassable.
- Large areas with power and communications outages.

* STORM SURGE
- LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Life-threatening storm surge possible
- Peak Storm Surge Inundation: The potential for 2-4 feet
above ground somewhere within surge prone areas
- Window of concern: early Monday morning until Tuesday
morning

- THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST
UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for storm
surge flooding greater than 3 feet above ground
- The storm surge threat has remained nearly steady from the
previous assessment.
- PLAN: Plan for life-threatening storm surge flooding of
greater than 3 feet above ground.
- PREPARE: Evacuation efforts and flood preparations should
soon be brought to completion before conditions become
unsafe.
- ACT: Leave immediately if evacuation orders are given for
your area to avoid being cut off from emergency services or
needlessly risk lives.

- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Significant
- Areas of inundation with storm surge flooding accentuated
by waves. Damage to non-elevated structures is possible.
- Sections of escape routes and secondary roads become
weakened or washed out, especially in usually vulnerable
low spots.
- Major beach erosion with heavy surf breaching dunes. Strong
and numerous rip currents.
- Moderate damage to marinas, docks, and piers. Several small
craft broken away from moorings, especially in unprotected
anchorages.

* FLOODING RAIN
- LATEST LOCAL FORECAST:
- Peak Rainfall Amounts: Additional 3-6 inches, with locally
higher amounts

- THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST
UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for
moderate flooding rain
- The flooding rain threat has remained nearly steady from
the previous assessment.
- PLAN: Emergency plans should include the potential for
moderate flooding from heavy rain. Evacuations and rescues
are possible.
- PREPARE: Consider protective actions if you are in an area
vulnerable to flooding.
- ACT: Heed any flood watches and warnings. Failure to take
action may result in serious injury or loss of life.

- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Significant
- Moderate rainfall flooding may prompt several evacuations
and rescues.
- Rivers and tributaries may quickly become swollen with
swifter currents and overspill their banks in a few places,
especially in usually vulnerable spots. Small streams,
creeks, canals, and ditches overflow.
- Flood waters can enter some structures or weaken
foundations. Several places may experience expanded areas
of rapid inundation at underpasses, low-lying spots, and
poor drainage areas. Some streets and parking lots take on
moving water as storm drains and retention ponds overflow.
Driving conditions become hazardous. Some road and bridge
closures.

* TORNADO
- LATEST LOCAL FORECAST:
- Situation is unfavorable for tornadoes

- THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST
UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Tornadoes not expected
- The tornado threat has remained nearly steady from the
previous assessment.
- PLAN: Tornadoes are not expected. Showers and thunderstorms
with gusty winds may still occur.
- PREPARE: Little to no preparations needed to protect
against tornadoes at this time. Keep informed of the latest
tornado situation.
- ACT: Listen for changes in the forecast.

- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Little to None
- Little to no potential impacts from tornadoes.

LAT...LON 2975 9122 2973 9118 2972 9113 2970 9111
2970 9110 2970 9110 2964 9111 2964 9109
2963 9108 2962 9112 2961 9112 2961 9114
2960 9114 2960 9115 2959 9116 2960 9117
2961 9118 2961 9118 2958 9122 2958 9123
2956 9122 2955 9124 2955 9126 2955 9127
2955 9128 2953 9129 2951 9127 2950 9128
2948 9128 2948 9129 2948 9131 2949 9133
2950 9135 2949 9147 2952 9155 2954 9153
2955 9153 2957 9154 2958 9154 2963 9155
2964 9159 2964 9158 2963 9162 2963 9166
2964 9164 2971 9162 2974 9162 2975 9167
2974 9171 2975 9174 2975 9178 2974 9178
2970 9186 2971 9188 2973 9186 2974 9186
2974 9185 2978 9180 2985 9171 2995 9163
2996 9147 2995 9147 2991 9141 2988 9140
2983 9137 2978 9139 2977 9135 2977 9130
2975 9124 2975 9122
LAT...LON 2933 9135 2933 9137 2940 9151 2943 9149
2943 9147 2937 9135 2933 9135 2933 9135
LAT...LON 2943 9126 2942 9133 2945 9135 2946 9130
2947 9129 2943 9126

$$
Hurricane Watch

Marco Local Watch/Warning Statement/Advisory Number 11
National Weather Service Lake Charles LA AL142020
1008 PM CDT Sat Aug 22 2020

LAZ054-231115-
/O.CON.KLCH.SS.A.1014.000000T0000Z-000000T0000Z/
/O.CON.KLCH.HU.A.1014.000000T0000Z-000000T0000Z/
St. Mary-
1008 PM CDT Sat Aug 22 2020

...HURRICANE WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT...
...STORM SURGE WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT...

* LOCATIONS AFFECTED
- Morgan City
- Patterson
- Franklin

* WIND
- LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Equivalent Cat 1 Hurricane force wind
- Peak Wind Forecast: 55-75 mph with gusts to 100 mph
- Window for Tropical Storm force winds: Monday morning until
early Thursday morning
- Window for Hurricane force winds: Wednesday afternoon until
Wednesday evening

- THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST
UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for wind 74
to 110 mph
- The wind threat has remained nearly steady from the
previous assessment.
- PLAN: Plan for life-threatening wind of equivalent CAT 1 or
2 hurricane force.
- PREPARE: Remaining efforts to protect life and property
should be urgently completed. Prepare for considerable wind
damage.
- ACT: Move to safe shelter before the wind becomes hazardous.

- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Extensive
- Considerable roof damage to sturdy buildings, with some
having window, door, and garage door failures leading to
structural damage. Mobile homes severely damaged, with some
destroyed. Damage accentuated by airborne projectiles.
Locations may be uninhabitable for weeks.
- Many large trees snapped or uprooted along with fences and
roadway signs blown over.
- Some roads impassable from large debris, and more within
urban or heavily wooded places. Several bridges and access
routes impassable.
- Large areas with power and communications outages.

* STORM SURGE
- LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Life-threatening storm surge possible
- Peak Storm Surge Inundation: The potential for 2-4 feet
above ground somewhere within surge prone areas
- Window of concern: early Monday morning until Tuesday
morning

- THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST
UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for storm
surge flooding greater than 3 feet above ground
- The storm surge threat has remained nearly steady from the
previous assessment.
- PLAN: Plan for life-threatening storm surge flooding of
greater than 3 feet above ground.
- PREPARE: Evacuation efforts and flood preparations should
soon be brought to completion before conditions become
unsafe.
- ACT: Leave immediately if evacuation orders are given for
your area to avoid being cut off from emergency services or
needlessly risk lives.

- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Significant
- Areas of inundation with storm surge flooding accentuated
by waves. Damage to non-elevated structures is possible.
- Sections of escape routes and secondary roads become
weakened or washed out, especially in usually vulnerable
low spots.
- Major beach erosion with heavy surf breaching dunes. Strong
and numerous rip currents.
- Moderate damage to marinas, docks, and piers. Several small
craft broken away from moorings, especially in unprotected
anchorages.

* FLOODING RAIN
- LATEST LOCAL FORECAST:
- Peak Rainfall Amounts: Additional 3-6 inches, with locally
higher amounts

- THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST
UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for
moderate flooding rain
- The flooding rain threat has remained nearly steady from
the previous assessment.
- PLAN: Emergency plans should include the potential for
moderate flooding from heavy rain. Evacuations and rescues
are possible.
- PREPARE: Consider protective actions if you are in an area
vulnerable to flooding.
- ACT: Heed any flood watches and warnings. Failure to take
action may result in serious injury or loss of life.

- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Significant
- Moderate rainfall flooding may prompt several evacuations
and rescues.
- Rivers and tributaries may quickly become swollen with
swifter currents and overspill their banks in a few places,
especially in usually vulnerable spots. Small streams,
creeks, canals, and ditches overflow.
- Flood waters can enter some structures or weaken
foundations. Several places may experience expanded areas
of rapid inundation at underpasses, low-lying spots, and
poor drainage areas. Some streets and parking lots take on
moving water as storm drains and retention ponds overflow.
Driving conditions become hazardous. Some road and bridge
closures.

* TORNADO
- LATEST LOCAL FORECAST:
- Situation is unfavorable for tornadoes

- THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST
UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Tornadoes not expected
- The tornado threat has remained nearly steady from the
previous assessment.
- PLAN: Tornadoes are not expected. Showers and thunderstorms
with gusty winds may still occur.
- PREPARE: Little to no preparations needed to protect
against tornadoes at this time. Keep informed of the latest
tornado situation.
- ACT: Listen for changes in the forecast.

- POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Little to None
- Little to no potential impacts from tornadoes.

$$
Hurricane Local Statement

Tropical Storm Marco Local Statement Advisory Number 11
LAZ029-033-044-045-052>055-231115-

Tropical Storm Marco Local Statement Advisory Number 11
National Weather Service Lake Charles LA AL142020
1015 PM CDT Sat Aug 22 2020

This product covers Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas

...MARCO MOVING NORTH-NORTHWESTWARD ACROSS THE SOUTHERN GULF OF
MEXICO...
...STORM SURGE AND HURRICANE WATCHES IN EFFECT FOR PORTIONS OF
THE NORTHERN GULF COAST...

NEW INFORMATION
---------------

* CHANGES TO WATCHES AND WARNINGS:
- None

* CURRENT WATCHES AND WARNINGS:
- A Storm Surge Watch and Hurricane Watch are in effect for
Iberia, St. Mary, and Vermilion
- A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Avoyelles, Lafayette,
Lower St. Martin, St. Landry, and Upper St. Martin
- A Storm Surge Watch is in effect for East Cameron and West
Cameron

* STORM INFORMATION:
- About 600 miles southeast of Intracoastal City LA or about 560
miles south-southeast of Morgan City LA
- 22.8N 86.3W
- Storm Intensity 65 mph
- Movement North-northwest or 335 degrees at 13 mph

SITUATION OVERVIEW
------------------

Marco is forecast to continue moving north-northwestward across the
central Gulf of Mexico on Sunday and will approach the northern Gulf
Coast on Monday. A gradual turn toward the west with a decrease in
forward speed is expected after Marco moves inland on Monday and on
Tuesday.

Data from an Air Force Reserve Hurricane Hunter aircraft indicate that
the maximum sustained winds remain near 65 mph with higher gusts. Some
strengthening is anticipated and Marco is forecast to become a
hurricane on Sunday. Marco is expected to be at or near hurricane
strength when it approaches the northern Gulf Coast on Monday. Rapid
weakening is expected after Marco moves inland.

POTENTIAL IMPACTS
-----------------

* WIND:
Prepare for life-threatening wind having possible extensive impacts
across South Central Louisiana. Potential impacts in this area
include:
- Considerable roof damage to sturdy buildings, with some having
window, door, and garage door failures leading to structural
damage. Mobile homes severely damaged, with some destroyed.
Damage accentuated by airborne projectiles. Locations may be
uninhabitable for weeks.
- Many large trees snapped or uprooted along with fences and
roadway signs blown over.
- Some roads impassable from large debris, and more within urban
or heavily wooded places. Several bridges and access routes
impassable.
- Large areas with power and communications outages.

Also, prepare for dangerous wind having possible limited to
significant impacts across Central Louisiana.

* SURGE:
Prepare for life-threatening surge having possible significant impacts
across South Central Louisiana. Potential impacts in this area
include:
- Areas of inundation with storm surge flooding accentuated by
waves. Damage to non-elevated structures is possible.
- Sections of escape routes and secondary roads become weakened
or washed out, especially in usually vulnerable low spots.
- Major beach erosion with heavy surf breaching dunes. Strong and
numerous rip currents.
- Moderate damage to marinas, docks, and piers. Several small
craft broken away from moorings, especially in unprotected
anchorages.

Elsewhere across Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas, little to no
impact is anticipated.

* FLOODING RAIN:
Prepare for dangerous rainfall flooding having possible significant
impacts across South Central and Central Louisiana. Potential impacts
include:
- Moderate rainfall flooding may prompt several evacuations and
rescues.
- Rivers and tributaries may quickly become swollen with swifter
currents and overspill their banks in a few places, especially
in usually vulnerable spots. Small streams, creeks, canals, and
ditches overflow.
- Flood waters can enter some structures or weaken foundations.
Several places may experience expanded areas of rapid
inundation at underpasses, low-lying spots, and poor drainage
areas. Some streets and parking lots take on moving water as
storm drains and retention ponds overflow. Driving conditions
become hazardous. Some road and bridge closures.

Prepare for locally hazardous rainfall flooding having possible
limited impacts across Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas.

* TORNADOES:
Little to no impacts are anticipated at this time across Southwest
Louisiana and Southeast Texas.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS
----------------------------------

* EVACUATIONS:
Listen to local official for recommended preparedness actions,
including possible evacuation. If ordered to evacuate, do so
immediately.

For those not under evacuation orders, assess the risk from wind,
falling trees, and flooding at your location. If you decide to move,
relocate to a safer location nearby. If you do not relocate, help keep
roadways open for those under evacuation orders.

* OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION:
Now is the time to check your emergency plan and emergency supplies
kit and take necessary actions to protect your family and secure your
home or business.

When making safety and preparedness decisions, do not focus on the
exact forecast track since hazards such as flooding rain, damaging
wind gusts, storm surge, and tornadoes extend well away from the
center of the storm.

If you live in a place particularly vulnerable to flooding, such as
near the ocean or a large inland lake, in a low-lying or poor drainage
area, in a valley, or near an already swollen river, plan to move to
safe shelter on higher ground.

* ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION:
- For information on appropriate preparations see ready.gov
- For information on creating an emergency plan see getagameplan.org
- For additional disaster preparedness information see redcross.org

NEXT UPDATE
-----------

The next local statement will be issued by the National Weather
Service in Lake Charles LA around 5 AM, or sooner if conditions
warrant.

Pages

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Phone: 337-828-3706
Fax: 337-828-2874

Morgan City Review
1014 Front Street, Morgan City, LA 70380
Phone: 985-384-8370
Fax: 985-384-4255

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