Louisiana Governor Declares a State of Emergency Following a Series of Tornadoes that Claimed at Least Two Lives, Damaged Homes, and Left Several People Injured

Louisiana –  Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards has declared a state of emergency following a series of tornadoes that claimed the lives of at least two. The storms damaged homes and left several people injured across the state

Following a Unified Command Group meeting with the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP), Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards visited communities damaged by Tuesday’s severe weather. Through Wednesday evening, the majority of the state was under a weather danger. Initial National Weather Service (NWS) reports indicate that six probable tornadoes affected Caddo, Union, Rapides, Madison, East Carroll, and Franklin Parishes. There were also other possible tornados in other areas of the state including Calcasieu Parish.  NWS staff will continue to study the tracks as the weather permits. The tornado in Caddo Parish claimed the lives of a 30-year-old woman and her 8-year-old son, whose home was destroyed. Throughout the state, numerous other injuries have been recorded.

Follow this link to view the Proclamation of the State of Emergency.

As the early stages of recovery commence, GOHSEP urges anybody whose property was damaged by the storms to report the damage by following this link

Governor This self-reporting damage survey will aid state and municipal agencies in determining the extent of damage in each region. However, reporting damage to GOHSEP is voluntary despite its vitality. It is not a replacement for submitting a claim with your insurer. This is the initial phase of the recovery process, and it does not guarantee disaster relief aid.

“I am heartbroken to learn of the mother and child who were killed in Southwest Caddo Parish due to one of numerous reported tornados,” said Governor Edwards. “My prayers go out to the family as well as those who were injured or lost their homes. I will be traveling to the Shreveport area and Union Parish today to tour the damage and response efforts. Unfortunately, this severe weather event is not yet out of our state as it now moves into Central and South Louisiana. Please stay weather aware and follow the directions of local officials.”

“It is important for everyone to understand the threat is not over,” said GOHSEP Director Casey Tingle. “As this system has slowed down, it’s caused several inches of rain to fall from Southwest Louisiana to Central Louisiana. That line, which may include additional wind and tornado threats, may not clear the state until Wednesday evening. We urge everyone to remain weather aware and stay informed. Limit travel if road conditions become dangerous. Look for potential messaging from the National Weather Service, your local media or your local emergency managers.”