Gov. John Bel Edwards encouraged Louisiana citizens to “be vigilant” during the uncertainty of Tropical Storm Harvey during a press briefing Aug. 30.
He said the southwest region of the state remains the center of gravity for the storm at this time, but will continue to update as more information is obtained.
Edwards said Louisiana has plans to continue to provide Texas the assistance it needs. The Louisiana State Police, Louisiana National Guard and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries are bringing Texas residents into the Lake Charles Civic Center for shelter. If North Louisiana approves, 3,400 additional Texans can be sheltered in Shreveport, Edwards said.
Five parishes in the state have declared federal emergency: Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis and Vermilion.
Edwards said he is unsure whether or not President Donald Trump will make an appearance in the state, but “the partnership with FEMA and the Trump administration has been outstanding.”
The governor recommended for citizens to donate to the American Red Cross and other agencies who are assisting Texas in its disaster reliefs. Additionally, he said to frequently stay informed on road closures throughout the state as many have standing water. He discouraged any travel to south Texas at this time.
“We don’t want people to be complacent,” Edwards said. “We don’t want people to panic.”
For additional information, Edwards recommended visiting emergency.la.gov and volunteerlouisiana.gov.