Weather Updates and Safety Measures in Southwest Louisiana

Pay Attention to Weather Alerts

Brace yourselves, Southwest Louisiana! As inclement weather looms over our region, residents are strongly advised to stay vigilant and monitor weather alerts closely. A Flood Watch is in effect until 12:00 PM, emphasizing the potential for flooding in our communities. Let’s take appropriate precautions to ensure our safety and well-being during this challenging time.

School Reopenings

Despite the adverse weather conditions, schools in several parishes will resume operations today, bringing a sense of normalcy back to our educational institutions. Students and staff in Allen Parish, Beauregard Parish, Calcasieu Parish, Cameron Parish, Jeff Davis Parish, Lake Charles Charter Academy, Southwest Louisiana Charter Academy, and Lake Charles College Prep will return to their respective schools. However, Hamilton Christian School will implement a delayed start at 8:30 AM, prioritizing the safety of students and staff during their commute.

High Water Advisory

The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office urges residents to exercise extreme caution on the roads, if travel is absolutely necessary. Heavy rainfall and potential flooding pose significant hazards, and venturing out unnecessarily could put you in harm’s way. Deputies will be patrolling the parish, utilizing high-water vehicles and boats to respond to flood-related emergencies. If you find yourself in need of assistance or encounter weather-related issues, don’t hesitate to contact the Sheriff’s Office at (337) 491-3795 or call 911. Your safety is our top priority.

Sandbag Distribution

In anticipation of the excessive rainfall, Calcasieu, Beauregard, and Jeff Davis parishes have taken proactive measures to protect residents from flooding. Sand and sandbags are readily available at designated locations across the parishes. Residents can fill up sandbags at these designated sites to safeguard their properties and mitigate the impact of potential flooding.

Calcasieu Parish

1. Public Works East – 5500-B Swift Plant Rd., Lake Charles (go to back gates on James Sudduth Parkway)
2. Ward 3 Old Barn – 2302 Smith Rd., Lake Charles
3. Former Old Tyme Variety Store location – 810 Ruth St., Sulphur
4. Iowa City Hall – 115 N Thompson Ave. (baseball field)
5. Ward 8 Barn – 1726 Parish Barn Rd., Iowa
6. Ward 1 Barn – 461 Parish Rd., Moss Bluff
7. Ward 2 Barn – 7085 La. 14 East, Hayes
8. Ward 5 Barn – 129 Third St., Starks
9. Ward 6 Barn – 1275 Plum St., DeQuincy
10. Vinton Public Works Yard – 1111 Eddy St.

Allen Parish

1. Town of Oberlin Barn (Outside the gate) – 207 W 5th Avenue Oberlin, La. 70655
2. Ward 2 Solid Waste Site (Outside the gate) – Corner of Kinder Cemetery Rd and Old Pump Road
3. Ward 3 Parish Barn (Outside the gate) – 108 S. Lyles Street Reeves, LA 70658
4. Ward 4 Parish Barn (Outside the gate) – 110 Carol Hill Rd. Elizabeth, LA 70638
5. Ward 5 Parish Barn (Outside the gate) – 518 Hwy 1152 Oakdale, LA 71463

Beauregard Parish

1. City Shop – 734 West Seventh St., DeRidder from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Jan. 23 and 24.

Jeff Davis Parish

1. Fire District 1 – 14132 La. 395, Roanoke
2. Fire District 2 – 5396 Pine Island Hwy (La. 102), Jennings
3. Fire District 3 – 6475 La. 99, Welsh
4. Fire District 3 – 17155 U.S. 90, Lacassine
5. Fire District 3 – 11055 La. 101 S, Iowa
6. Fire District 5 – 23405 La. 383, Iowa
7. Fenton Yard – 18677 Estes Rd., Iowa
8. Fire District 7 – 135 North Lane, Ragley
9. Elton Town Hall – 1302 Main St.
10. Lake Arthur Yard – 5358 Andrus Cove Cemetery Rd.
11. Fenton Elementary, 509 First St.
12. Woodlawn Fire Station – 20487 Hwy. 101, Iowa

Residents are kindly requested to bring their own shovel to fill their bags when collecting sandbags. In case of long lines, a limit of 10 to 15 sandbags per person is requested, with the option to re-enter the line for additional bags as needed.

Stay Informed and Adhere to Safety Guidelines

To stay updated on the latest weather conditions and safety information, residents are strongly encouraged to monitor local news outlets and official government sources. Adhere strictly to the following guidelines to ensure your safety and the safety of others:

– Avoid flooded areas and roadways. Even a few inches of water can cause significant damage to your vehicle and pose a safety hazard.
– If you must travel, slow down and increase following distance to avoid hydroplaning.
– Never drive through flooded roads or bridges. The current may be stronger than it appears and could sweep your vehicle away.
– Be aware of downed power lines and trees. Stay away from these areas and report them to the appropriate authorities.
– If you are in a low-lying area, be prepared to evacuate to higher ground if necessary.
– Have a plan in place for emergencies and keep a supply of food, water, and other essential items on hand.

By working together and following these safety measures, we can navigate this challenging weather situation and emerge stronger as a community.