Louisiana Faces Flood Risk from Developing Tropical Disturbance in the Gulf

Record-Breaking Heat wave Grips Pacific Northwest, Shattering temperature Records

SEATTLE, WA – A relentless and unprecedented heat wave has descended upon the Pacific Northwest, pushing temperatures to historic highs and shattering numerous long-standing records.Cities across Washington, Oregon, and idaho are sweltering under extreme heat, prompting widespread health advisories and straining infrastructure.

The most severe impacts are being felt in urban centers, were the “urban heat island” effect exacerbates already dangerous temperatures. Residents are urged to take extreme precautions, stay hydrated, and limit outdoor activities, notably during the peak afternoon hours. Cooling centers have been established in many communities to provide relief for those without adequate air conditioning.

This extreme weather event highlights the growing vulnerability of regions unaccustomed to such prolonged periods of intense heat. Experts point to the long-term implications of climate change,which is increasing the frequency and intensity of such heat waves globally. As the planet warms, understanding and adapting to these new climatic realities becomes increasingly critical for public health and safety.

Evergreen Insights:

Heat and Infrastructure: Extreme heat places significant stress on power grids due to increased demand for air conditioning. It can also affect transportation infrastructure, such as buckling roads and rails. Vulnerable Populations: Elderly individuals,young children,people with pre-existing medical conditions,and those without access to cooling are at the highest risk during heat waves. public health messaging and community support are vital.
Climate Change Connection: Understanding the link between human-induced climate change and the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events like heat waves is crucial for developing long-term mitigation and adaptation strategies. Urban Planning for Heat: Cities can implement strategies like increasing green spaces (parks, trees), using cool pavements, and improving building energy efficiency to mitigate the urban heat island effect and enhance resilience to future heat waves.
* Personal Preparedness: Being prepared for heat waves involves having a plan for staying cool,checking on neighbors,knowing the signs of heat-related illnesses,and having essential supplies.

What actions should residents in Plaquemines Parish take too prepare for the anticipated storm surge?

Current Threat Assessment – July 17, 2025

A developing tropical disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico is posing a significant flood risk to Louisiana. As of today, July 17, 2025, the system, currently designated as Invest 93L by the National Hurricane Center, is exhibiting increasing signs of association. While not yet a named tropical storm, forecasts indicate a high probability of it intensifying rapidly over the warm Gulf waters.This presents a serious threat of heavy rainfall,storm surge,and potential flash flooding across coastal and inland parishes. Residents are urged to monitor updates closely and prepare for potential impacts.

Projected Path and Intensity

Current models suggest the disturbance will likely make landfall along the Louisiana coastline within the next 48-72 hours. The exact location remains uncertain, with possibilities ranging from the Mississippi Delta to western Louisiana near the Texas border.

Intensity Forecast: Rapid intensification is expected. The system could reach tropical storm strength within 24 hours and potentially become a hurricane before landfall.

Rainfall Totals: Widespread rainfall of 5-10 inches is anticipated, with isolated areas potentially receiving up to 15 inches. This level of rainfall will overwhelm drainage systems and lead to significant flooding.

Storm Surge: Coastal areas are notably vulnerable to storm surge.Projections indicate potential surge heights of 2-4 feet, especially in areas with shallow coastal waters.

Wind Speeds: Tropical storm-force winds (39-73 mph) are likely along the immediate coastline, with hurricane-force winds possible depending on the system’s ultimate intensity.

Areas at Highest Risk

Several Louisiana parishes are facing the most significant risk from this developing tropical system. These include:

Plaquemines Parish: Extremely vulnerable to storm surge due to its low-lying geography.

Jefferson Parish: High population density and proximity to the coast increase the potential for widespread impacts.

Orleans Parish (New orleans): The city’s drainage infrastructure is capable, but heavy rainfall can still overwhelm the system, leading to urban flooding.

Lafourche and Terrebonne Parishes: These coastal parishes are susceptible to both storm surge and heavy rainfall.

Cameron Parish: Historically impacted by hurricanes, Cameron Parish faces a high risk of significant flooding and wind damage.

Vermilion Parish: Inland but still vulnerable to heavy rainfall and potential flooding.

Preparing for Potential Flooding: A Checklist

proactive preparation is crucial to minimizing the impact of this storm. Here’s a checklist of essential steps:

1. Stay Informed: Monitor the National Hurricane center (https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/) and local news for the latest updates and warnings.
2. Evacuation Planning: If you live in a low-lying area or are ordered to evacuate,have a plan in place. Know your evacuation route and shelter locations. Louisiana’s state government website (https://www.louisiana.gov/) provides evacuation resources.
3. Emergency Supplies: Assemble an emergency kit including:

Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days)

Non-perishable food (at least a three-day supply)

Flashlight and extra batteries

First aid kit

Medications

Cash

Important documents (insurance policies,identification)

1. Protect Your Property:

Secure loose outdoor objects (furniture,trash cans,decorations).

Board up windows or use storm shutters.

Clear gutters and downspouts.

Consider sandbagging around vulnerable areas.

1. Flood Insurance: review your flood insurance policy. Standard homeowner’s insurance does not cover flood damage.

Louisiana’s History with Flooding & Hurricane Preparedness

Louisiana, as noted by resources like Lexas (https://www.lexas.de/nordamerika/usa/bundesstaaten/louisiana/index.aspx), is particularly susceptible to flooding due to its low elevation and coastal location. The state has a long history of devastating hurricanes and floods, including:

Hurricane Katrina (2005): Caused widespread devastation, particularly in New Orleans, due to levee failures.

the Great Flood of 1927: A historic flood that inundated much of the Mississippi River Valley, including Louisiana.

Hurricane Ida (2021): Brought catastrophic flooding and wind damage to southeastern Louisiana.

These events have led to significant investments in flood control infrastructure,including levee improvements and drainage upgrades. However,the state remains vulnerable,and preparedness is paramount.

Real-Time resources & Information

* Louisiana State Police: ([https://lsp.org/](https://lsp.org/