Louisiana – As Tropical Storm Francine threatens to develop into a Category 1 or 2 hurricane, Louisiana State Police are urging residents to stay weather aware and prioritize safety. With heavy rainfall expected to begin midweek, flash flooding in low-lying areas and hazardous driving conditions are major concerns.
Motorists are advised to avoid traveling in inclement weather and to exercise extreme caution when encountering high water. It’s crucial to remember that just 12 inches of fast-moving water can carry away a small car, and six inches can knock over and carry away an adult. Nighttime driving poses an added risk, as it’s harder to recognize the dangers of flooding.
In the event of a Louisiana landfall, highways will likely experience heavy traffic ahead of the storm. Residents who choose to evacuate are advised to travel north, not east or west. Motorists should be aware of their surroundings, avoid distractions, and drive carefully.
For those who don’t evacuate, staying home and avoiding unnecessary travel is strongly recommended. Louisiana State Police are working closely with the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) to anticipate potential hazards, including downed power lines, trees, and debris that may inhibit safe travel.
To stay safe on the roads, motorists should always wear their seat belts, increase their following distance, and stay tuned to local weather forecasts and alerts. Watches and warnings will likely increase as the storm approaches.
Motorists should never drive down flooded roads or around barricades, and should stay aware of changing weather and emergency conditions. In the event of a roadside emergency, callers should dial LSP (577) for assistance.
For road closure information, motorists can utilize the 511 phone system, visit 511la.org, or download the Louisiana 511 smartphone application.