Front view of the Capitol

Hurricanes & Tropical Weather Resources

Dear Friend,

Hurricane Season is between June 1 and November 30 and our district is particularly susceptible to these natural disasters.

We have had difficult storm seasons recently with Hurricanes Ida and Laura, reminding us of the destruction that comes when our communities are not adequately protected or prepared for natural disasters and their aftermath. That’s why I am committed to ensuring our communities receive the protection and risk reduction systems they deserve.

In Congress, that involves being a strong advocate and voice for all of our communities, from Baton Rouge through the River Parishes to New Orleans, and using that voice to fight for the resources we need to fund protection projects. e recently passed Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act has provided unprecedented funding for our state’s roads, bridges, levees and water systems, and I’ll keep pushing for these funds to produce real, life-changing results protect our community from storms, and help improve everyday life.

I am also working to fix the National Flood Insurance Program, especially in light of Risk Rating 2.0 policies that are ratcheting up insurance premiums for Louisianians. It’s unacceptable. I am committed to working with people on all sides of the aisle to come up with solutions for this issue.

Subscribe to my newsletter to continue receiving the most up-to-date Hurricane Ida resources and information. 

Download, print out, and share this postcard detailing important steps for preparedness and working with FEMA and SBA after a hurricane.

Review or download my mailer (below) for important hurricane preparedness resources. 

Final_Troy Carter 9x12 Hurricane Mailer-5.pdf  (1.25 MB)
hurricane preparedness

 

Identify your risks, have a plan and act today. The best way to help yourself, your family and your community recover after a disaster is by taking steps now, before it’s too late. Just because your area was not touched by a hurricane in the past few years, does not mean it will be spared this time around. I encourage everyone to download the new FEMA mobile app and start making a plan today. But most importantly, pay attention to your local officials and emergency managers for guidance on when and if to evacuate.

Hurricane Frequently Asked Questions

 

REGISTER WITH FEMA

Louisiana disaster survivors are urged to register for federal disaster assistance with FEMA. Individuals and business owners in the designated parishes who had storm or flood damage should register for “Individual Assistance” with FEMA in the following ways:  

  • Online at www.disasterassistance.gov 
  • By phone at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) 
  • People who have a speech disability or hearing loss and use TTY should call 1-800-462-7585 
  • For those who use 711 or Video Relay Service (VRS), call 1-800-621-3362 

The toll-free telephone numbers above will operate 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week until further notice. 

You'll need the following to complete your registration: 

  • Social Security Number (SSN) OR the SSN of a minor child in the household who is a U.S. Citizen, Non-Citizen National or Qualified Immigrant 
  • Annual Household Income 
  •  Contact Information (phone number, mailing address, email address*, and damaged home address) 
  • Insurance Information (coverage, insurance company name, etc.) 
  • Bank Account Information (if you are eligible to receive financial assistance, the money can be deposited in your account) 

FEMA Generator and Chainsaw Reimbursement

During Hurricane Ida, if you have been approved for FEMA individual assistance, you were eligible for generator & chainsaw reimbursements if you purchased a generator and/or chainsaw between Aug 26 and Sept. 25, 2021.

Generators up to $800

Chainsaws up to $250

Make sure to save your receipts and follow the equipment's instruction manual when operating to ensure proper and safe use. Learn more here. 

Critical Needs Assistance

Individuals and households who have immediate or critical needs because they are displaced from their primary dwelling may be eligible for the Critical Needs Assistance program, which covers food, water, prescriptions, medical supplies, and other life-saving and life-sustaining items. Critical Needs Assistance is a one-time direct deposit of $500 payment per household.

To be eligible, survivors need to be residents of a parish that was included in the federal disaster declaration and need to first apply for assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov, through the FEMA app, or by calling (800) 621-3362.

Text-to-Shelter

FEMA has updated its Text-to-Shelter feature this year. When there’s an evacuation order issued, users can text “shelter” and their ZIP code to 43362 for a list of nearby shelter locations.

Crisis Clean-up Hotline

The Crisis Cleanup Hotline is in operation for survivors who need help with cleanup and removal of damage from Hurricane Ida. The hotline will connect with volunteers, local relief organizations, and faith and community groups to help with cutting fallen trees, drywall, floor, and appliance removal, tarping roofs, and mold mitigation. 

Call 844-965-1386 to request assistance. They will remain open until September 17, 2021.

National Flood Insurance Program

If you have flood insurance, you must also file a flood insurance claim with your insurance company. FEMA Call Center is open for policyholders who need assistance:

  • Call 1-800-621-3362 between Monday-Friday 8am-6pm and select option 2 for the FEMA call center for guidance and answers to questions regarding the NFIP

 

 

DISASTER DISTRESS HELPLINE:

If you are experiencing emotional distress due to the storm, call the National Disaster Distress Helpline. This toll-free, multilingual, crisis support service is available 24/7 via telephone (1-800-985-5990) and SMS (text ‘TalkWithUs’ to 66746). 

Statewide Resources

The State of Louisiana has created a Hurricane Recovery page to provide information regarding the state.

Shelters

To find shelter in your area, visit the website https://www.disasterassistance.gov/information/immediate-needs/emergency-shelter,  Call 2-1-1, or text LAShelter to 898211 

Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (DSNAP)

DSNAP provides eligible households who do not currently receive SNAP benefits with help buying groceries due to lost income or damages following a disaster like Hurricane Ida.

This program is not approved yet, but you can pre-register now, here.

All residents impacted by Ida can preregister for DSNAP by texting LADSNAP to 898211.

FEMA TRANSITIONAL SHELTERING ASSISTANCE

If you are eligible for Transitional Sheltering Assistance, FEMA will pay the cost to stay in certain lodging providers for a limited period. Costs covered are for the cost of the room and taxes, and any other expenses are not included. Search the list of participating locations, here, to see if they have availability in the area you have selected. Since room availability changes quickly, please call the lodging provider prior to traveling to be sure the lodging provider can accommodate your need.

You must have a FEMA registration number to access a list of participating lodging providers. Apply for FEMA disaster assistance above to obtain a registration number.

FEMA TRANSITIONAL SHELTERING ASSISTANCE

Disaster unemployment assistance is now available to businesses and residents whose unemployment or self-employment was lost or interrupted as a direct result of Hurricane ida. You can apply now at laworks.net.

 

Disaster Distress Hotline

HHS Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration activates its Disaster Distress Helpline. This toll free, multilingual, crisis support service is available 24/7 via telephone or text at 800-985-5990 for disaster survivors experiencing emotional distress. Si necessitan ayuda en espanol, se puede llamar o manda un mensaje a este numero y pone 'dos' por ayuda bilingual.

General Safety and Usage Guidelines for Backup Generators

  • Be sure to use your generator correctly. Using a generator incorrectly can lead to dangerous situations:
    1. Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust. Even if you can’t smell exhaust fumes, you may still have been exposed to carbon monoxide. If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get fresh air right away. If you experience serious symptoms, get medical attention immediately. Consider installing battery-operated carbon monoxide alarms. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions and take proper precautions.
    2. Electric shock or electrocution.
    3. Fire.

Use a portable generator only when necessary, and only to power essential equipment.

  • Position generators outdoors and well away from any structure. Running a generator inside any enclosed or partially enclosed structure can lead to dangerous and often fatal levels of carbon monoxide. Keep generators positioned outside and at least 15 feet away from open windows so exhaust does not enter your home/business or a neighboring home/business.
  • Keep the generator dry. Operate your generator on a dry surface under an open, canopy-like structure and make sure your hands are dry before touching the generator. Do not use the generator in rainy or wet conditions.
  • Disconnect the power coming into your home/business. Before you operate your generator, disconnect your normal source of power. Otherwise, power from your generator could be sent back into the utility company lines, creating a hazardous situation for utility workers.
  • Make sure your generator is properly grounded. Grounding generators can help prevent shocks and electrocutions. Refer to OSHA guidelines for grounding requirements for portable generators. 
  • Plug equipment directly into the generator. Use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords that are in good working condition and have a wire gauge that can handle the electric load of any connected appliances.
  • DO NOT plug the generator into a wall outlet. NEVER try to power your house/business by plugging the generator into a wall outlet or the main electrical panel. Only a licensed electrician should connect a generator to a main electrical panel by installing the proper equipment according to local electrical codes. Make sure the electrician installs an approved automatic transfer switch so you can disconnect your home’s wiring from the utility system before you use the generator.
  • Maintain an adequate supply of fuel. Know your generator’s rate of fuel consumption at various power output levels. Carefully consider how much fuel you can safely store and for how long. Gasoline and diesel fuel stored for long periods may need added chemicals to keep them safe to use. Check with your supplier for recommendations. Store all fuels in specifically designed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place, away from all potential heat sources.
  • Turn the generator off and let it cool before refueling. Use the type of fuel recommended in the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Inspect and maintain your generator regularly. Check aboveground storage tanks, pipes, and valves regularly for cracks and leaks, and replace damaged materials immediately. Tanks may require a permit or have to meet other regulatory requirements. Purchase a maintenance contract and schedule at least one maintenance service per year, such as at the beginning of every hurricane season. Keep fresh fuel in the tank, and run the generator periodically to ensure it will be ready when you need it.

For National Hurricane Center updates on Tropical Storm Ida click here and for National Weather Service updates click here.

Each year, hurricane season lasts from June 1st to November 30th. Dangers from these storms include high winds, heavy rain, tornadoes, flooding, and power outages. Depending on a storm’s severity, your city might issue a mandatory evacuation order. If your city issues a mandatory evacuation, all residents and visitors must leave. If an evacuation is not ordered, it's up to you to decide to evacuate or shelter in place.

Tropical weather begins with a low-pressure area of circulating winds over water. A system can develop into a:

  • Tropical depression: winds of 38 miles per hour (mph) or less
  • Tropical storm: winds between 39 and 73 mph
  • Hurricane: winds of 74 mph or more. Hurricanes are given a category—1 through 5—based on wind speed. The higher the winds, the higher the category.

Prepare for a storm

  • Hurricanes are not just a coastal problem. Find out how rain, wind, water, even tornadoes could happen far inland from where a hurricane or tropical storm makes landfall. Preparing your home and neighborhood before a storm can help reduce potential damage.
  • Hurricanes and storms can arrive quickly and with little warning. Preparation ahead of time is critical to protecting yourself, your family, and your property.
    • Start preparing now
    • Be informed by receiving alerts, warnings, and public safety information before, during, and after emergencies.
    • Assemble an emergency kit.
    • Create and review your family emergency plan.
      • If you live or work in a flood zone, hurricane evacuation zone, or an area that is prone to flooding, you should be prepared to evacuate.
      • If you receive medical treatment or home health care services, work with your medical provider to determine how to maintain care and service if you are unable to leave your home or have to evacuate during.

Understand your flood risk

Climate and topography make flooding a reality in New Orleans and the surrounding areas. And certain parts of the region are more likely to flood. 

Additional flood risk information can be found at:

Insure your property

Floods are the most common and costly natural disaster, so it’s important to have the right coverage. Homeowner's and renter's insurance usually don’t cover flood damage. Flood insurance takes 30 days to take effect, so now’s the time to buy. 

Clean your property and street

  • Remove debris from gutters and downspouts.
  • Clear debris from catch basins. Report clogged catch basins to 311. 
  • Prune trees and shrubs.
  • Bring outdoor furniture and decorations inside.
  • Secure or bring garbage bins inside.
  • Move possessions to your highest floor.
  • Photograph your property for insurance purposes.

Secure your home

  • Check your roof and siding for any loose pieces.
  • Cover your windows with plywood or storm shutters.
  • Secure boats and recreational vehicles.
  • If you live in a trailer or mobile home, evacuate for any storm. Before you leave, do all the above and:
    • Shut off fuel lines but do not disconnect them.
    • Turn off water where it enters your home.
    • Use both “over the top” and “frame” ties to secure your home.

Shelter in place

If a mandatory evacuation is not ordered, decide whether to evacuate or to shelter in place.

Gather what you’ll need to shelter in place

  • Non-perishable food for 3 days
  • 3 gallons of water per person
  • Manual can opener
  • Flashlight & extra batteries
  • Matches or lighter
  • First Aid Kit
  • Week’s supply of prescription medications
  • Radio (battery operated or hand crank)
  • Books & games

Prepare for power & water outages

Stay safe and informed

  • Bring pets inside.
  • Lock doors and windows. Close curtains and blinds.
  • Stay inside until officials say otherwise.
  • Call 911 in an emergency. Call 311 for information or to report non-emergency service requests like downed trees.
  • Storms can be scary for children. Talk to your family about what’s happening, and keep games and toys on hand to entertain. 
  • Download the FEMA app and receive real-time alerts from the National Weather Service for up to five locations nationwide.
  •  Sign up for community alerts in your area and be aware of the Emergency Alert System (EAS) and Wireless Emergency Alert (WEA)- which requires no-sign up.

 

Evacuate

If the City orders a mandatory evacuation, all residents and visitors must leave.

Gather what you'll need to leave

  • Clothes
  • Soap, toothbrush & toothpaste
  • Bedding
  • Identification
  • Cash
  • List of emergency contacts
  • Medications, copy of medical records & prescriptions
  • Birth & marriage certificates
  • Documents that prove where you live
  • Insurance policies
  • Pet supplies

Leave as early as possible

EVACUATE BY CAR

  • During a mandatory evacuation, all lanes on major highways will go out of the city. This is called contraflow. Plan your route ahead of time.
  • Estimate that it will take 4 times longer than usual to get to your destination.
  • Leave with a full tank of gas.

LEAVE BY AIRPLANE

TAKE THE BUS

TAKE THE TRAIN

New Orleans city-assisted evacuation

If you can’t evacuate on your own during a mandatory evacuation, the City of New Orleans can help. City-assisted evacuation provides free transportation out of harm's way. Text EVACNOLA to 77295 if you might need to use City-Assisted Evacuation. The City of New Orleans will text you information if there is a mandatory evacuation.

How it works

The Smoothie King Center will be the hub for evacuation for residents who can’t leave on their own. During a mandatory evacuation, evacuees should come to the Smoothie King Center (1501 Dave Dixon Dr.), where they will be registered for evacuation. From there, evacuees will board a bus, train, or airplane to a state or federal shelter. To get to the Smoothie King Center from your home, there are multiple options:

  • Evacuspots: There are 17 pickup locations across the city, called evacuspots, where dedicated shuttle buses will be bringing evacuees to the Smoothie King Center. 5 evacuspots are specifically for seniors. 
    • Click here to find the nearest evacuspot to you.
  • RTA Bus Routes: RTA will run on a Saturday schedule and all bus routes ending at Duncan Plaza will make a final stop at the Smoothie King Center.
  • Drop Offs and Walk Ups: Evacuees can be dropped off or walk up to the Smoothie King Center from the intersection of Poydras and LaSalle Streets.
  • Uber/Lyft/Rideshare: If you are using a rideshare to get to the Smoothie King Center, please be dropped off at Loyola Ave. and Dave Dixon Dr.
  • Special Needs Registry: If you need to be picked up from your home due to medical or mobility needs, sign up for the special needs registry.

72-hour Evacuation Timeline

This is an estimation for planning purposes. In an actual evacuation, the timeline may shift based on a number of variables.

 Pay attention during hurricane season and be ready to evacuate immediately if asked to do so.


evacuation timeline

Visit www.ready.gov or www.listo.gov to learn more about preparing for hurricanes and severe weather.

More Information

Hurricane Preparedness Checklist

Returning Home After A Hurricane:

  • Pay attention to local officials for information and special instructions.

  • Be careful during clean-up. Wear protective clothing, use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris, and maintain a physical distance of at least six feet while working with someone else. People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled, even if they do not have an allergy to mold. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.

  • Continue taking steps to protect yourself from infectious diseases, such as washing your hands often and cleaning commonly touched surfaces.

  • Wear protective clothing and work with someone else.

  • Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If it is safe to do so, turn off electricity at the main breaker or fuse box to prevent electric shock.

  • Do not wade in flood water, which can contain dangerous pathogens that cause illnesses, debris, chemicals, waste and wildlife. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.

  • Save phone calls for emergencies. Phone systems are often down or busy after a disaster. Use text messages or social media to communicate with family and friends.

  • Document any property damage with photographs. Contact your insurance company for assistance.

  • Engage virtually with your community through video and phone calls. Know that it’s normal to feel anxious or stressed. Take care of your body and talk to someone if you are feeling upset. The threat of a hurricane can add additional stress. Follow CDC guidance for managing stress during a traumatic event.