BATON ROUGE, LA — September 2, 2018 — The National Weather Service (NWS) New Orleans advises that thunderstorm activity associated with Invest 91L is becoming better organized as it moves West / Northwest toward the Gulf of Mexico. The NWS predicts that heavy rainfall will be the most likely hazard; even if a system does not develop. Invest 91L is expected to bring approximately 4 to 7 inches of rain, with localized higher amounts, in and around our area. Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome and The Mayor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (MOHSEP) are closely monitoring the latest weather forecasts.

As weather conditions continue to evolve, Mayor Broome advises East Baton Rouge Parish citizens, “to maintain a situational awareness as we move through this Labor Day weekend.” Residents are urged to stay informed, review your emergency plan, update your disaster supply kit, and use the Buddy System to check on neighbors and friends. Remember to include your pets in your disaster plan. “I encourage residents to keep storm drains near you clear of leaves and debris, ensure your gutters are not blocked, and if you have a generator, ensure you have an adequate fuel supply. Each of us can help our community get Red Stick Ready ahead of the tropical weather,” says Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome. Follow these preparedness tips to help keep East Baton Rouge Parish Red Stick Ready:

• Stay informed of the latest weather forecast by:
  • Monitoring your local weather radio and TV stations.
  • Follow Red Stick Ready on Facebook and Twitter.
  • Download the free Red Stick Ready app on your smartphone.
• Secure any loose items in your yard.
  • Garbage cans
  • Patio furniture
  • Outdoor toys
• Fuel your vehicles, generators, and gas cans in the case of a power outage.
• Build a disaster supply kit.
  • Include perishable food, water, extra batteries, medication, and important documents.
• Review your emergency plan.
  • Update contact information.
• Charge your cell phones and other electronic devices.
• Use the BuddySystem™ to check on your neighbor.
• Use caution while commuting over the holiday weekend; never drive through standing flood waters.
• Stay away from downed trees and / or power lines.
• Report utility outages to your provider.

As a precautionary measure, City-Parish officials have pre-positioned sand and sandbags at several strategic locations throughout the parish.

Sand and sandbags are available at the following locations: 

• BREC Alsen Park – 601 Old Rafe Meyer Road
• BREC Doyles Bayou Park – 7801 Port Hudson-Pride Road
• BREC Flannery Road Park – 801 South Flannery Road
• BREC Lovett Road Park – 13443 Lovett Road
• St. George Fire Department Headquarters – 14100 Airline Highway

Additional sandbag locations will be added tomorrow. Residents are advised to bring their own shovels to fill the sandbags.

For more information follow @RedStickReady on Facebook and Twitter and download the Red Stick Ready mobile application - free on Apple and Android devices.