BATON ROUGE, La. - The Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) is urging
everyone to stay weather aware as a potentially dangerous weather system moves into the state Tuesday. The threat
includes damaging winds, heavy rainfall, hail and the potential for tornadoes.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has placed much of the northeast corner of the state in the Moderate (Level 4 out
of 5) or Enhanced (Level 3 out of 5) risk categories. Other regions of the state are in a Slight or Marginal category. The
NWS Storm Prediction Center rarely issues Moderate risk levels a day before an event. Earlier this month, portions of
Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas and Oklahoma were impacted by several tornadoes from a Level 4 (Moderate) risk system.
"I'm encouraging everyone to keep track of these storms and heed the advice of your local weather experts and
officials," said Gov. Edwards. "The tornado and damaging winds over the weekend in St. Charles Parish are an example
of how dangerous storms can be this time of year. Conditions can change quickly, and it is difficult to determine exactly
where potential problems will develop. In this case, much of the danger will continue into the overnight hours Tuesday
when most people are asleep. I can't stress enough how important it is to have your game plan in place to protect
yourself and your loved ones."
"Look for watches or warnings," said GOHSEP Director Casey Tingle. "Power outages can be an issue, so make sure
your devices are charged. Go to GetAGamePlan.org to help finalize plans for your family, your business and your
pets. Conditions during these types of events can quickly change. Check your local forecast and stay informed."