Archive for August, 2016
Louisiana: Several deaths have been reported and more than 20,000 have had to be rescued since Friday in some of the worst flooding the state has ever seen. And at least 11,000 have hunkered down in shelters to wait out the floods.
Tuesday, August 16th, 2016Louisiana: Ochsner Medical Center Baton Rouge (O’Neal campus) transferred approximately 40 critically ill patients to other Ochsner facilities due to severe weather and flooding around the hospital.
Tuesday, August 16th, 20168/14/16
Ochsner Provides Family Hotline for Transfers BATON ROUGE (4 pm) –
Earlier this afternoon, Ochsner Medical Center Baton Rouge (O’Neal campus) transferred approximately 40 critically ill patients to other Ochsner facilities due to severe weather and flooding around the hospital. An additional 10-15 are expected to be transferred shortly, as a precautionary measure, to ensure ongoing continuity of care effective immediately.
Ochsner has established a hotline for family members needing information on the new location of a patient. Family can call 504-842-3198 and will need to provide a patient’s date of birth to receive information about their condition and location. If the patient has not yet been moved, they will receive condition and an update on the intended location and potential arrival time. We continue to monitor the water levels and the situation with local and state officials. We have not made a decision to transport additional patients at this time.
Patient safety is our highest priority. We will remain in contact with our Office of Emergency Preparedness to ensure that military vehicles and air transport support will be available should we need it. Ochsner Baton Rouge medical personnel remain on site and the facility has power, water and adequate supplies to care for our remaining patients and staff.
We are still assessing the total impact of the severe weather and flooding. As we have information on our ability to reopen our Emergency Room and the ability to staff and open some of our Health Centers tomorrow, we will provide those updates to the media, on our website and via social media. All staff is encouraged to check their email for staffing updates as well. Ochsner patients can have confidence that their medical records are safe and available via MyOchsner as well as at any Ochsner location. Ochsner has an electronic medical record system and can offer continuous care regardless of where you see an Ochsner doctor.
Ochsner is committed to serving its community during this difficult time and fully appreciates the support of its dedicated staff and the larger Baton Rouge community.
Please follow us on social media: Facebook: Ochsner Health System, Twitter: @OchsnerHeatlh, Newsroom: news.ochsner.org for updates as additional information becomes available.
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Louisiana: Governor’s Emergency Proclamation – STATE OF EMERGENCY – HEAVY RAIN AND FLOODING
Tuesday, August 16th, 2016EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT
PROCLAMATION NUMBER 111 JBE 2016
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STATE OF EMERGENCY – HEAVY RAIN AND FLOODING
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WHEREAS, the Louisiana Homeland Security and Emergency Assistance and Disaster Act, La. R.S. 29:721, et seq., confers upon the Governor of the State of Louisiana emergency powers to deal with emergencies and disasters, including those caused by fire, flood, earthquake or other natural or manmade causes, in order to ensure that preparations of this State will be adequate to deal with such emergencies or disasters and to preserve the lives and property of the people of the State of Louisiana;
WHEREAS, when the Governor determines that a disaster or emergency has occurred, or the threat thereof is imminent, La. R.S. 29:724(B)(1) empowers the Governor to declare a state of emergency by executive order or proclamation, or both;
WHEREAS, a flash flood watch is in effect for all of southeastern Louisiana until at least Saturday morning, with rainful accumulations of seven to ten inches likely, with some areas expected to receive more;
WHEREAS, this weather event has resulted in school, road and/or state office closures in the following parishes: Ascension, East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana, Iberia, Iberville, Livingston, St. Helena, St. James, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Washington, Lafayette, St. Martin and West Baton Rouge, with ongoing reports of additional parishes affected or expected to be affected; and
WHEREAS, the severe weather is expected to continue and the State anticipates assistance will be needed for parishes to respond to this continuing threat.
NOW THEREFORE, I, JOHN BEL EDWARDS, Governor of the State of Louisiana, by virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution and the laws of the State of Louisiana, do hereby order and direct as follows:
SECTION 1: Pursuant to the Louisiana Homeland Security and Emergency Assistance and Disaster Act, La. R.S. 29:721 et seq., a state of emergency is hereby declared to exist statewide as a result of this event, the effects of which continue to threaten the lives and property of the citizens of the State.
SECTION 2: The Director of the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is hereby authorized to undertake any activity authorized by law which he deems appropriate in response to this declaration.
SECTION 3: All departments, commissions, boards, agencies and officers of the State, or any political subdivision thereof, are authorized and directed to cooperate in actions the State may take in response to the effects of this severe weather event.
SECTION 4: This order is effective upon signature and shall remain in effect from Friday, August 12, 2016 until Saturday, September 10, 2016 unless terminated sooner.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have set my hand officially and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of Louisiana, at the Capitol, in the City of Baton Rouge, on this 12th day of August, 2016.
/s/John Bel Edwards __________________________________________ GOVERNOR OF LOUISIANA
Louisiana: Information and Assistance during the Floods by the Parish Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Preparedness
Tuesday, August 16th, 2016
Louisiana Emergency Management Agency
ROAD CLOSURE INFORMATION
DISASTER ASSISTANCE INFORMATION
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DISASTER RECOVERY CENTER INFORMATION
No emergency information at this time.
SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION (SBA) INFORMATION
No emergency information at this time.
PROCLAMATIONS
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SHELTER INFORMATION
For shelter information contact your Parish OHSEP.
STATE OFFICES CLOSURE INFORMATION
State employees should be aware of the following phone numbers to call, which will be updated with information regarding office closures: 1.800.360.9660 or 225.342.0498.
AUGUST 2016 FLOOD AERIAL PHOTOS
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Please click the picture below to access the 2016 August Heavy Rain and Flooding Event aerial pictures. This is an interactive map, click and zoom to locate an area.
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Press Release:
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Louisiana Disaster Survivors: You Owe It to Yourselves to Register by the June 13 Deadline
BATON ROUGE (June 10, 2016): The people of Louisiana have had a rough time. Almost everyone knows someone who is still getting their life back on track after the March 8 through April 8 floods. You may be one yourself.
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Walmart and the Walmart Foundation Announce $500,000 towards Louisiana Flood Relief Efforts
BENTONVILLE, ARKANSAS (August 15, 2016): Walmart and the Walmart Foundation have made a commitment to provide support through cash and in-kind donations of $500,000 to organizations helping with relief efforts for those affected by the floods in Louisiana.
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Free Louisiana and Mississippi Disaster Home Cleanup Hotline Available Now
BATON ROUGE (August 15, 2016): From now through September 16, 2016, Information Technology Disaster Resource Center and VisionLink, are staffing and supporting a free hotline for the survivors of the Louisiana/Mississippi floods.
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Flooding update
BATON ROUGE (August 15, 2016): My fellow Louisianans – Our state is currently experiencing a historic flooding event that is breaking every record.
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Red Cross Urges Residents to Register as Safe and Well
BATON ROUGE (August 15, 2016): Right now it’s important to connect with your loved ones who are concerned about your well-being.
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Ag & Forestry Emergency Personnel Respond to Historic Flooding
BATON ROUGE (August 14, 2016): Today, Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) Commissioner Mike Strain and State Forester Wade Dubea delivered 50 pet crates to a shelter location in Lafayette accepting animals.
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Ochner Provides Family Hotline for Transfers
BATON ROUGE (August 14, 2016): Earlier this afternoon, Ochsner Medical Center Baton Rouge (O’Neal campus) transferred approximately 40 critically ill patients to other Ochsner facilities due to severe weather and flooding around the hospital.
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Volunteers Should Use the Following to Register to Provide Assistance
BATON ROUGE (August 14, 2016): Anyone that would like to provide assistance for the ongoing severe weather and flooding event should call the American Red Cross at 855.489.2528.
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Louisiana State Police and Other First Responders Providing Support to Stranded Motorists on I-12
BATON ROUGE (August 14, 2016): The Louisianan State Police (LSP) Air Support Unit is currently flying to the I-12 area to continue support efforts for stranded motorists.
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Louisiana Nationl Guard’s search and rescue operations increase Air, land, boat rescues continue
NEW ORLEANS (August 13, 2016): The Louisiana National Guard has rescued nearly 500 people and 61 pets during search and rescue operations due to heavy flooding in seven different parishes, including 15 rescues by air, during the last 24 hours.
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Greensburg Man Killed When Vehicle is Swept Off Road in Dangerous Flood Waters
St. Helena Parish (August 13, 2016): Yesterday evening, shortly after 7:00 pm, Louisiana State Police Troop L was notified of a vehicle that was off the roadway on the south side of LA 10 at Darlings Creek, three miles west of LA 1043.
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Gov. Edwards to Hold Press Conference on Severe Weather
BATON ROUGE (August 13, 2016): Today, Gov. John Bel Edwards will hold a press conference to discuss the severe weather in Louisiana. The press conference will take place following a briefing of the Unified Command Group at the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP).
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Red Cross Supporting Reception Centers Across Region for Flash Flooding Evacuees
BATON ROUGE (August 12, 2016): The American Red Cross is collaborating with parish officials as it supports reception centers across the region and plans for overnight shelters.
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Gov. Edwards Declares State of Emergency
BATON ROUGE (August 12, 2016): Today, Gov. John Bel Edwards declared a state of emergency for the entire state of Louisiana as a result of severe weather. The declaration is in effect until Saturday, Sept.10, 2016.
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Louisiana National Guard responding to heavy flash flooding
BATON ROUGE (August 12, 2016): At the request of the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, the Louisiana National Guard has mobilized personnel and equipment to assist local, parish and state emergency officials with heavy flash flooding in Iberia, Lafayette, St. Helena, Tangipahoa and West Feliciana parishes.
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Red Cross Supporting Reception Centers Across Region for Flash Flooding Evacuees
BATON ROUGE (August 12, 2016): The American Red Cross is collaborating with parish officials as it supports reception centers across the region and plans for overnight shelters.
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION SOURCES:
- Click the hyperlinks below for important information
- For lists of flood alerts across the state from the National Weather Service: click here
- For contact information for local Office of Emergency Preparedness: click here
- For regular updates through social media: facebook, twitter
- ALERT FM – Emergency Alerts Weather App now available for iPhone and iPad in the Apple iTunes Store!
click image to download
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State of Louisiana Proclamations, Press Releases, and Updates
October 4, 2013
Governor Jindal Urges Louisianians to Get A Game Plan for
Tropical Storm Karen, Holds Unified Command Group Meeting
January 14, 2013
Governor Bobby Jindal Declares State of Emergency for Severe Weather And Flooding
November 30, 2012
Press Release: As Hurricane Season Ends, GOHSEP Encourages Families to Keep Focused on Preparedness for All Hazards
November 21, 2012
Press Release: Louisiana Emergency Managers Deploying to Assist New York, New Jersey Following Hurricane Sandy
November 7, 2012
Press Release: GOHSEP Deploying Emergency Management Teams to New York, New Jersey to Assist with Response to Hurricane Sandy
October 28, 2012
Press Release: GOHSEP Assisting Maryland, Pennsylvania in Responding to Hurricane Sandy
October 26, 2012
Press Release: FEMA Approves Louisiana’s Request to Extend Registration Deadline for Hurricane Isaac Aid
September 28, 2012
Press Release: Hurrican Isaac Damaged almost 59,000 Residences in Louisiana
September 14, 2012
Press Release: FEMA Approves Individual Assistance for Three Additional Louisiana Parishes Impacted by Hurricane Isaac
September 7, 2012
PHOTO RELEASE: Oil mats and tar balls present on Elmer’s Island following Hurricane Isaac
September 7, 2012
Press Release: LDWF Reopening Three Wildlife Management Areas Sept. 8
September 7, 2012
Press Release: Louisiana awarded $3.4 million grant to assist unemployed
September 7, 2012
Press Release: State Agencies Continue Response Efforts to Assist Communities Impacted by Hurricane Isaac
September 7, 2012
PHOTO RELEASE: Closing the back levee breach in Plaquemines Parish
September 7, 2012
Press Release: CCCD set to resume toll operations this weekend
September 7, 2012
Press Release: Food banks, Red Cross seeking donations
September 6, 2012
Press Release: Five more Louisiana parishes eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance
September 6, 2012
Press Release: Algiers to Canal Street Ferry resumes operations
September 6, 2012
Press Release: Gov. Jindal Holds Unified Command Group, Updates on State Response to Isaac
September 6, 2012
Press Release: FEMA Approves Individual Assistance for Five Louisiana Parishes Impacted by Hurricane Isaac
September 6, 2012
Press Release: DCFS Announces USDA Approval of Automatic Replacement of Partial Regular SNAP Benefits for August
September 5, 2012
Press Release: DCFS Releases Federal Monthly Income Guidelines for DSNAP
September 5, 2012
Press Release: Gov. Jindal Holds Unified Command Group, Updates On State Response to Isaac
September 5, 2012
Press Release: Construction work resumes on Interstates 10 and 12
September 5, 2012
Press Release: State government offices to remain closed in St. John the Baptist and Plaquemines parishes Thursday and Friday
September 5, 2012
Press Release: St. Charles, Tangipahoa parishes now eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance
September 5, 2012
Press Release: Health Department Advises Residents Using Private Wells in Hurricane-Affected Areas of Risks, Testing Options
September 4, 2012
Press Release: DCFS Extends 1-888-LAHELP-U Hours to 24/7 Due to DSNAP High Call Volume
September 4, 2012
Press Release: LDWF Closes a Portion of Coastal Waters Due to the Emergence of Oil on Adjacent Beaches
September 4, 2012
Press Release: DCFS Announces DSNAP Locations, Alphabetic Order of Service
September 4, 2012
Press Release: DEQ warns residents to exercise caution around floodwater
September 4, 2012
Press Release: State government offices to remain closed in St. John the Baptist and Plaquemines parishes Wednesday
September 4, 2012
Press Release: Gov. Jindal Holds Unified Command Group, Updates On State Response to Isaac
September 4, 2012
Press Release: Health Department Emphasizes Precautions Residents Should Take During Hurricane Cleanup
September 4, 2012
Press Release: LDWF Reopening Lake Ramsey WMA Sept. 4
September 4, 2012
Press Release: DCFS Receives Waiver to Allow Hot Foods to be Purchased with SNAP, DSNAP Cards
September 4, 2012
Press Release: DHH Continues Phasing Down Medical Special Needs Shelter Operations as Residents Return to their Communities
September 3, 2012
Press Release: Gov. Jindal Holds Unified Command Group, Updates On State Response to Isaac
September 3, 2012
Press Release: DOTD resumes ferry service at Edgard/Reserve
September 3, 2012
Press Release: CCCD resumes ferry service at Chalmette; Algiers still without power
September 3, 2012
Press Release: As More Residents Return Home, Health Officials Emphasize Heat Stroke Risk
September 3, 2012
Press Release: Louisiana requests $3.4 million for cleanup jobs assistance
September 3, 2012
Press Release: Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Approved for Nine Parishes Following Hurricane Isaac
September 3, 2012
Press Release: Louisiana Schools Open Tuesday
September 3, 2012
Press Release: Louisiana Residents Affected by Isaac Can Apply for Temporary Housing Assistance
September 2, 2012
Press Release: DOTD has cleared debris from all state roadways
September 2, 2012
Press Release: Louisiana Workforce Commission sends teams to help evacuees at shelters in North Louisiana
September 2, 2012
Press Release: Interstate 10 open from Baton Rouge to New Orleans
September 2, 2012
Press Release: DHH Phases Down Medical Special Needs Shelter Operations as Residents Return to their Communities
September 2, 2012
Press Release: DNR Fuel Team Provides Fuel Station Listings
September 2, 2012
PHOTO RELEASE: DCFS and LWC Heads Tour Shelter
September 2, 2012
PHOTO RELEASE: Ongoing Flood Conditions in Southeastern Louisiana
September 2, 2012
PHOTO RELEASE: Pearl River Lock #2 in St. Tammany Parish
September 2, 2012
Press Release: State Deploys Resources to St. Tammany to Assist with Evacuation Efforts
September 2, 2012
Press Release: Disaster Unemployment Assistance available for victims of Hurricane Isaac
September 1, 2012
Press Release: Louisiana Requests DSNAP Benefits for Four More Parishes
September 1, 2012
Press Release: More Louisiana Residents Now Eligible for Post-Isaac Recovery Assistance from FEMA
September 1, 2012
Press Release: DEQ encourages residents to dispose of storm debris
September 1, 2012
Press Release: Health Department Issues Comprehensive List of Water Systems Under Boil Advisory following Hurricane Isaac
September 1, 2012
Press Release: DHH Urges Residents to Protect Themselves from West Nile Virus during Hurricane Isaac Recovery
September 1, 2012
Press Release: DOTD reopens Interstate 10 from Baton Rouge to New Orleans, with lane restrictions due to flood water in LaPlace
September 1, 2012
Press Release: Local Isaac Relief Volunteers Still Urgently Needed, Reminded to Register First
September 1, 2012
Press Release: State Reopened Some Louisiana Oyster Beds Today
September 1, 2012
Press Release: State Department of Agriculture and Forestry Updates Efforts in Aftermath of Hurricane Isaac
September 1, 2012
Press Release: Health Officials Warn Residents to Be Careful of Heat-Related Illnesses While Cleaning Up Storm Debris
September 1, 2012
Press Release: LDWF Advises Residents to Remain Alert for Wildlife Displaced by Flooding
August 31, 2012
Press Release: State of Louisiana Requests Federal Aid for an Additional 18 Parishes
August 31, 2012
Press Release: Louisiana Requests Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Benefits for Five Parishes after Hurricane Isaac
August 31, 2012
PHOTO RELEASE: Aerial Photos of Flooding in Grand Isle due to Hurricane Isaac
August 31, 2012
Press Release: Louisiana Workforce Commission Web Site Back Up
August 31, 2012
Press Release: LDWF Wildlife Management Areas and Refuges Reopening Sept. 1, Habitat Damage Assessment Continues
August 31, 2012
PHOTO RELEASE: Aerial Photos of Louisiana Flooding from Hurricane Isaac
August 31, 2012
Press Release: Elmer’s Island to Remain Closed
August 31, 2012
Press Release: Office of Conservation Oversees Resumption of Drilling at Texas Brine Site
August 31, 2012
All Louisiana Workforce Commission systems down
August 31, 2012
Press Release: Plaquemine ferry returns to service, White Castle and Edgard/Reserve remain closed
August 30, 2012
Press Release: LDWF Confirms Alligator Harvest Season Opening Sept. 1 in East Zone, Sept. 5 in West Zone
August 30, 2012
Press Release: Health Department Issues Comprehensive List of Water Systems Under Boil Advisory following Hurricane Isaac
August 30, 2012
Press Release: Louisiana National Guard Opening Sites to Provide Food, Water, Supplies to Residents in Storm-Affected Communities
August 30, 2012
Press Release: Agriculture and Forestry Continues Response to Isaac
August 30, 2012
PHOTO RELEASE: Photos of Louisiana Flooding from Hurricane Isaac
August 30, 2012
PHOTO RELEASE: Flood Waters in St. John the Baptist Parish
August 30, 2012
UPDATED: State government offices to remain closed in 16 Louisiana parishes Friday, reopening in all others
August 30, 2012
PHOTO RELEASE: LDWF Agents Rescue More Than 1,500 in Aftermath of Hurricane Isaac
August 30, 2012
PHOTO RELEASE: International Levee Breach in Plaquemines Parish to Help Drain Flood Waters
August 30, 2012
Press Release: Call 2-1-1 to Locate Loved Ones at State-Run Shelters
August 30, 2012
Strain: Hire only licensed arborists to work on storm-damaged trees
August 30, 2012
Press Release: DOTD reopens all state routes in East Baton Rouge, East Feliciana and Pointe Coupee parishes
August 30, 2012
Press Release: DOTD announces priority routes for Tangipahoa Parish
August 30, 2012
Press Release: State Issues Boil Advisories in Response to Hurricane Isaac
August 30, 2012
Media Advisory: Tangipahoa Residents Should Call 2-1-1 for Latest Sheltering and Evacuation Information
August 30, 2012
Press Release: DOTD announces open routes for drivers traveling to New Orleans
August 29, 2012
Press Release: State Issues Additional Boil Advisories in Response to Hurricane Isaac
August 29, 2012
Press Release: State Issues Boil Advisories in Response to Hurricane Isaac
August 29, 2012
Governor Jindal Holds Unified Command Group Meeting, Updates on Storm Response
August 29, 2012
Press Release: State government offices to remain closed statewide Thursday
August 29, 2012
Press Release: DOTD reminds motorists to use the 511 Traveler Information System for road closure information
August 29, 2012
Press Release: Health Department Reminds Residents to Be Aware of West Nile Virus Threat, Take Precautions
August 29, 2012
Press Release: State Health Department Offers Safety Tips to Prevent Injuries, Accidents during Storm Cleanup
August 29, 2012
Press Release: Debit Card Fees Waived This Week For Unemployment Claimants, Some DCFS Program Recipients
August 29, 2012
Press Release: DOTD announces priority routes for south Louisiana during Hurricane Isaac
August 28, 2012
State Officials Ask Residents to Report Oil, Oily Material or Oiled Debris
August 28, 2012
State government offices to close statewide Wednesday
August 28, 2012
LDWF Closes Rockefeller Wildlife Refuge in Cameron Parish
August 28, 2012
Press Release: September SNAP Benefits to be Issued Early to Assist Those Impacted by Isaac
August 28, 2012
Governor Jindal Outlines Preparations, Urges Federal Government to Issue Full Disaster Declaration
August 28, 2012
Governor Jindal Issues Executive Order Outlining Emergency Procedures for Conducting State Business
August 28, 2012
Governor Bobby Jindal Issues Executive Order on the Use of State Vehicles to Transport Non-State Employees During an Emergency
August 28, 2012
Press Release: Gov. Jindal Issues Health-Focused Executive Orders to Aid Isaac Response
August 28, 2012
Press Release: EPA Grants Louisiana Partial Fuel Waiver Request
August 28, 2012
Press Release: State of Louisiana Requests Title 32 Designation for up to 8,000 Members of Louisiana National Guard
August 28, 2012
Higher Education Prepares for Isaac
August 27, 2012
DEQ Requests Fuel Waiver from EPA in Advance of Isaac
August 27, 2012
State Closes Louisiana Oyster Beds in Advance of Isaac
August 27, 2012
Office of Conservation Issues Order for Operators to Take Precautionary Steps
August 27, 2012
LDWF Reminds Residents to Report Tropical Storm Isaac-Related Fish Kills
August 27, 2012
Residents Urged to Use Caution when Operating Generators
August 27, 2012
Gov. Jindal: Today is Day to Take Precautions, Evacuate
August 27, 2012
Price Gouging Law in Effect Following State of Emergency Declaration
August 27, 2012
Storm Prep: Protect tax records and financial documents during emergencies
August 26, 2012
Press Release: Gov. Jindal Urges Louisianians to Get Prepared for Tropical Storm Isaac, Encourages Voluntary Evacuations in Hurricane Watch Areas
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August 26, 2012
Executive Proclamation: Governor Bobby Jindal Declares State of Emergency for Tropical Storm Isaac
[ PDF]
August 24, 2012
Press Release: GOHSEP Crisis Action Team Monitoring Tropical Storm Isaac
June 25, 2012
Press Release: STATE AGENCIES OUTLINE RESPONSE TO T.S. DEBBY
June 23, 2012
Press Release: STATE MONITORS TROPICAL STORM DEBBY
March 23, 2012
Executive Proclamation: STATE OF EMERGENCY – SEVERE WEATHER AND FLOODING
March 22, 2012
Press Release: UPDATE: STATE AGENCY RESPONSE TO SEVERE WEATHER
March 21, 2012
Press Release: STATE AGENCIES RESPOND TO SEVERE WEATHER
March 20, 2012
Press Release: LOUISIANA BRACES FOR MORE SEVERE WEATHER
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PREPAREDNESS + SAFETY TIPS
- For preparedness tips visit: www.GetAGameplan.org
- Do not walk through flowing water, as drowning is the number one cause of flood deaths. Six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet;
- Do not drive your car through a flooded area, as it does not take much water to carry away a vehicle. Do not drive around road barriers, because you do not know if the road of a bridge has been washed out;
- Stay away from power lines and electrical wires, as electrical current can travel through water. Report downed power lines to your utility company.
A Texas resident who recently traveled to an area of Miami with local Zika transmission has tested positive for the virus.
Tuesday, August 16th, 2016“…This is the first Texas case to be linked to travel within the continental United States….”
Nepal: A bus filled with people traveling home slipped off a narrow mountain road Monday, killing at least 33 and injuring 28 more.
Tuesday, August 16th, 2016A wildfire that has ripped through several Lake County neighborhoods has grown to 4,000 acres and torched 175 structures
Tuesday, August 16th, 2016Milwaukee, WI: A traffic stop that led to a death, then a night of protest and violence.
Monday, August 15th, 2016“…four officers were hurt, and a 16-year-old girl was hit by what was thought to be crossfire, suffering non-life-threatening injuries…..17 people were arrested, most for civil disobedience but four on burglary charges. Six businesses were burned, and seven squad cars were damaged….”
Cyclospora cases linked with travel to Mexico: 204 cases reported in the UK since 1 June 2016
Sunday, August 14th, 2016Investigations are ongoing after an increase in cases of food and water bug, Cyclospora, associated with travellers returning from Mexico.
Public Health England (PHE) is advising people planning on travelling to the Riviera Maya coast in Mexico to be aware of the risk of infection from a food and water bug, Cyclospora.
PHE is aware of an increase in Cyclospora cases linked with travel to Mexico. There have been 204 cases reported in the UK since 1 June 2016, with 148 cases from holidaymakers who stayed in a number of different hotels and resorts on the Riviera Maya coast. Investigations into the source of infection are ongoing.
Infection can cause frequent, watery diarrhoea, abdominal cramping, bloating, nausea, flatulence, low-grade fever, loss of appetite and weight. Individuals with underlying immune deficiency can be at risk of more severe infection.
Travellers to Mexico are strongly advised to maintain a high standard of food, water and personal hygiene, even if staying in high-end resorts. There is no risk of the bug being passed from person to person.
Advice for travellers
Infection is transmitted through consumption of food or water that is contaminated by Cyclospora. Foods often implicated in outbreaks include soft fruits like raspberries and salad products such as coriander, basil and lettuce.
Travellers are advised to:
- ensure drinking water is bottled, boiled, or filtered with a special filter designed for purifying drinking water
- avoid uncooked berries, unpeeled fruit, salad leaves and fresh herbs since these are difficult to clean
- ensure food is freshly prepared, thoroughly cooked and eaten hot whenever possible
On return from Mexico, if you have any symptoms such as those described above you should seek medical attention and tell your GP about your travel history. The infection is diagnosed by testing of stool samples, and although most cases resolve on their own, antibiotics can be given to treat severe or prolonged infections.
Dr Katherine Russell, Head of Travel and Migrant Health at PHE, said:
Following the link with travel to Mexico, the UK travel industry has been informed and we are sharing information with the Mexican health authorities to support their investigations.
Get medical advice for any symptoms, either during your holiday or after you return. Symptoms can include: diarrhoea, appetite loss, stomach cramps and pain, bloating, increased wind, weight loss, nausea or tiredness. If you are ill when you get home, remember to tell your GPabout your travel history.
Dr Vanessa Field, Deputy Director of the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC), said:
It is very important to reinforce the need for travellers going to tropical or subtropical countries, including Mexico, to follow good food and water hygiene advice at all times on holiday, even if staying in high-end, all-inclusive resorts. Avoid buffets and choose recently prepared, thoroughly cooked food that is served piping hot. Avoid fresh uncooked berries or unpeeled fruit and any salad items not washed in safe water. Remember that drinks may also contain uncooked herbs, vegetables or fruit.
Cyclospora cayetanensis is a protozoan parasite that infects humans. Infection is acquired from food or water contaminated by the parasite. Because this organism is not infectious until approximately 10 days after they are passed in faeces, person-to-person transmission does not occur.
Read advice about food and water hygiene and specific advice for travellers to Mexico on the NaTHNaC website.
General information on Cyclospora is available on the NHS Choices website.
Clinical and travel guidance for health professionals is available on the PHEwebsite.