Calcasieu Parish Officials Issue Emergency Declaration Ahead of Tropical Storm Francine

Calcasieu Parish officials are preparing for the arrival of Tropical Storm Francine. During a briefing held Monday, Sept. 9, the Calcasieu Parish Executive Policy Group discussed the storm, which is currently in the Gulf of Mexico. As part of the preparations, Calcasieu Parish Police Jury President Anthony Bartie issued an Emergency Declaration, which activated the parish’s emergency plans.

The latest forecast shows that Tropical Storm Francine is heading toward Louisiana, with a likely landfall in Vermilion Parish. As a result, a Hurricane Warning has been issued for Cameron Parish and coastal areas to the east, while Calcasieu Parish is under a Tropical Storm Watch.

Southwest Louisiana specifically the Calcasieu Area can expect wind gusts between 50 and 60 mph, which could lead to downed trees, power outages, and roof damage. These conditions may begin as early as Tuesday night, but Wednesday morning is the most likely time for the strongest winds.

Rainfall between 2 and 6 inches is expected, which could cause flash flooding in low-lying areas and on roads. Although the chance of tornadoes is higher east of Southwest Louisiana, officials are not ruling out the possibility of tornadoes in the area

Water levels are predicted to rise 2 to 3 feet above normal starting Tuesday night and continuing through Wednesday afternoon. Flooding could affect areas near bodies of water, like along the coast and near the Calcasieu River in Deatonville. However, as the storm progresses, winds are expected to shift and push the storm surge back out.

At this time, there is no evacuation order in place for Calcasieu Parish. However, officials advise residents in low-lying areas or mobile homes to take precautions and find a safe place to stay.

There is a Mandatory Evacuation for parts of Cameron Parish, CLICK HERE FOR MORE

The Calcasieu Parish School Board (CPSB) has announced that all Calcasieu Parish schools and facilities will be closed on Tuesday, Sept. 10, and Wednesday, Sept. 11. McNeese State University will be closed after 12:00 on Tuesday and will be closed through Wednesday.

Later today, officials will receive an update from the National Weather Service to get a clearer picture of the storm’s path. Another briefing may be held tomorrow at 10 a.m. if needed.