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Gov. John Bel Edwards and the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) is urging everyone to prepare for Tropical Storm Delta. As of Tuesday, forecasts from the National Hurricane Center (NHC) indicated the storm could grow to at least a category 2 hurricane as it enters the Gulf of Mexico and makes landfall later this week. Weather experts say there is growing confidence the storm will make landfall in Louisiana, but changes in the track and intensity of the storm are possible.

“It’s unfortunate to have another system threaten Louisiana’s coastal parishes, but it is a situation we are prepared to handle,” Edwards said. “It is common for many people to experience hurricane fatigue during a busy season, but we need everyone to take this threat seriously. That starts with staying weather aware and watching for updates from the National Hurricane Center, the National Weather Service office for your region and your local media. While we hope the forecast improves, we must prepare for the threat on hand.”

The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) has remained activated since March due to the ongoing COVID-19 fight and multiple tropical threats, including the ongoing recovery for Hurricane Laura.

Conference calls with local emergency management leaders have started to determine what potential state resources could be needed for response. Unified Command Group (UCG) meetings are being scheduled along with those local updates.

Please remember, if flash flooding becomes a problem due to heavy rainfall, never drive on flooded roadways. Check out the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development’s website www.511la.org for updated road closure information.

Finalize an emergency communications plan with your family and co-workers.

Check your emergency supplies. Remember to include any items needed to sustain each family member for at least three days.

Supply kits should include:

• A three to five- day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won’t spoil.
• A supply of face coverings, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes due to COVID-19 concerns.
• One change of clothing and footwear per person, and one blanket or sleeping bag per person.
• A first-aid kit that includes your family’s prescription medications.
• Emergency tools including a battery-powered radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries.
• An extra set of car keys and a credit card, cash or traveler’s checks.
• Sanitation supplies.
• Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members.
• An extra pair of glasses.
• Important family documents in a portable, waterproof container.
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels.
• Paper and pencil.
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children.
• Infant formula and diapers.
• Pet food and water.

The governor’s office will share updates about Delta, Hurricane Laura response and recovery and COVID-19 through its texting system. Residents may opt-in by texting LAGOV to 67283 and sign up for phone calls by going to Smart911.