ST. LANDRY PARISH, LA — As hurricane season approaches, Louisiana state officials are urging residents to prepare now before any storms develop on the horizon.
Ashley LeBlanc, Regional Coordinator for the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) in Region 4, stresses the critical importance of having a comprehensive evacuation plan in place well before a storm threatens.
“The best thing you can do is to have a plan—prepare now if you haven’t already. Hurricane season is upon us,” LeBlanc said. She warned that choosing to ignore a mandatory evacuation order could put lives at serious risk.
LeBlanc advises residents to be prepared to sustain themselves for at least 72 hours, keeping enough clothing, food, and essential supplies on hand to cover that period.
Know Your Evacuation Routes
In the days leading up to a hurricane, parish, state, and federal officials may issue voluntary or mandatory evacuation orders. LeBlanc says it is crucial for residents to be familiar with designated evacuation routes.
“The Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) will designate specific evacuation routes,” she explained. “You’ll see blue and white signs with a hurricane symbol posted approximately every 40 miles.”
She recommends that residents download the Louisiana Emergency Preparedness Guide, which features detailed maps of key evacuation routes, including major highways like I-49 and I-10.
“Use the evacuation map to identify your starting point and destination. Don’t wait until the last minute to figure it out,” LeBlanc urged.
Understanding Evacuation Phases
The preparedness guide also outlines three low-lying areas categorized by evacuation phases. For example, New Orleans—marked in red—has a 50-hour evacuation window due to its vulnerability to storm surge.
“These areas are particularly at risk, which is why we emphasize the importance of early evacuation to avoid tragedy,” LeBlanc said.
Shelter Information and Pet Planning
Residents who plan to evacuate but have no predetermined destination are encouraged to contact their local Office of Emergency Preparedness for information about available shelters before and after the storm.
LeBlanc also reminded pet owners to plan ahead, as some shelters do not accommodate animals. “There are specific rules and restrictions based on the type and size of your pet. Make arrangements early if you need a pet-friendly option,” she said.
Medical Considerations
Dr. Tina Stefanski of the Louisiana Department of Health urges residents with medical conditions to coordinate with healthcare providers in advance.
“If you have complex medical conditions or rely on home health or hospice care, consult those professionals now to make sure your evacuation plan fits your needs,” Stefanski said.
As hurricane season begins, officials reiterate the importance of preparation. LeBlanc’s final message to Louisianans is clear: “Prepare now, have a plan, and take evacuation orders seriously. Your safety depends on it.”