#15,454
Tropical Storm Sally continues to strengthen as it moves slowly towards the Louisiana/Mississippi coastline, and is forecast to be a strong CAT 1 (or possibly CAT 2) storm at landfall tomorrow night.
Approaching from the southeast, this storm has the potential to produce a life-threatening storm surge (7-11 ft) along the coast - particularly to the east of where the center crosses the coast - along with dropping 10 to 20 inches of rain in some areas. Both inland and coastal flooding are significant threats.
Interests from Southeastern Louisiana to the Florida panhandle should monitor this storm closely, and make all preparations for its arrival over the next 24 to 30 hours.
From the City of New Orleans/Emergency Management:
TODAY10:15 AMTROPICAL STORM SALLYTropical Storm Sally's forecast intensity has increased. Current forecasts show Sally making landfall as a Category 2 hurricane, with impacts likely to begin Monday and last into Wednesday.
A Flash Flood Watch is in effect for New Orleans. Current rainfall totals are forecast between six to twelve inches, with locally higher amounts possible, which could bring flooding to the area. Residents are encouraged to prepare their properties for heavy rain and move vehicles to higher ground. Parking on neutral grounds and sidewalks will be allowed beginning at 6 p.m. today. Please do not block intersections, streetcar tracks, or bike paths. In partnership with the New Orleans City Council, sandbags will be available at the following locations from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.:
- Arthur Monday Center, 1111 Newton St.
- Dryades YMCA, 2220 Oretha Castle Haley Blvd.
- Milne Recreation Center, corner of Franklin and Filmore Avenues
- Former Walmart and Sam's parking lot, 6901 Bundy Rd.
A Hurricane Warning is in effect for New Orleans. There is a 70 to 80 percent chance of tropical storm force winds (sustained winds over 39 mph) in the metro area, with the most likely arrival time being Monday evening into Tuesday morning. Residents should prepare for high winds by securing trash bins, outdoor furniture, and loose branches.
A Storm Surge Warning is in effect. Storm surge between seven to eleven feet is possible in areas outside the levee system, with four to six feet anticipated in Lake Pontchartrain. For this reason, the City is issuing a mandatory evacuation order for areas outside of levee protection, including Venetian Isles, Lake Catherine, and Irish Bayou. The evacuation order will go into effect today at 6 p.m.
In preparation for potential power outages and impacts, residents are encouraged to gather emergency supplies, including food, water, and medications, for at least three days. Those who might need extra help during a storm due to medical or mobility needs should sign up for the City’s Special Needs Registry. To register, call 3-1-1 or go to specialneeds.nola.gov.
