Remembering Katrina As We Recover from Hurricane Laura

Today marks the 15th anniversary of Hurricane Katrina making landfall and causing historic loss of life and damage to Louisiana and Mississippi. As we remember the tragic losses and extreme damage our state suffered, I would also like to extend my thoughts and prayers to those who have just been impacted by Hurricane Laura in Louisiana, Texas, and other states. 

Hurricane Laura caused severe damage throughout much of Southwest Louisiana, with thousands of residents across the state suffering from massive wind damage and power outages. Fifteen years after Katrina, our recovery is a testament to the resilient people of Louisiana and our unbreakable sense of community. Just as we recovered from Hurricane Katrina, we will recover from Hurricane Laura and rebuild our communities even stronger than before. As our state rebuilds, I will continue working with local, state, and federal officials to ensure Louisiana has the resources we need to recover and preserve our unique way of life. 

As we begin the road to recovery, here are some resources that may be helpful to you or a loved one:

• The Louisiana Department of Health is monitoring water systems affected by Hurricane Laura. LDH will be posting any inoperable water systems due to the storm here.
  
  
• Are you under a boil water advisory? Please view these tips from the CDC to ensure your water isn’t contaminated with germs that can make you sick.
  
  
• Several roads remain obstructed with downed trees, power lines, and debris. Before you travel, plan your route using 511la.org to see up to date information on road and bridge closures throughout the state. Avoid driving in standing or running water and never drive around or remove "road closed" barricades.

Elevating LA Highway 1

This week, we witnessed another closure of LA Highway 1 after it became impassable due to severe flooding from Hurricane Laura. Along with being a hurricane evacuation route, LA 1 provides sole access to Port Fourchon and the Louisiana Offshore Oil Port (LOOP). In June, I was proud to work alongside the Trump Administration to secure $135 million in federal funding to elevate LA Highway 1. This is a major victory for the protection of Louisiana families and for safeguarding access to our nation’s oil and natural gas supply.

Flooding of LA 1 on August 26, 2020 – LA 1 is now reopen from Golden Meadow to Leeville

Please continue to follow the advice of your local officials, monitor your local news, and be aware of the risks associated with the aftermath of Hurricane Laura. We must remain vigilant as we are only now entering the peak of the 2020 Atlantic hurricane season. My office remains open and available to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have.

It is an honor to represent you in Congress. For more information please visit my website, Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook pages.


God Bless,