May 21, 2021 | From City of New Orleans
City of New Orleans Monitoring the Gulf, Responding to Coastal Flooding
NEW ORLEANS — The City of New Orleans is monitoring a system in the Western Gulf of Mexico that now has a 60% chance of tropical development before it is forecast to bring heavy rainfall to Southeast Texas and Southwest Louisiana.
Significant impacts are not currently anticipated in the New Orleans area; however, strong east-southeast winds are expected to continue to cause coastal flooding along Lakes Pontchartrain, Borgne, and Catherine. Several wind-related weather advisories are in effect for Orleans Parish, including a Wind Advisory, Coastal Flood Advisory, and Coastal Flood Warning (for areas outside the levee system).
The Southeast Louisiana Flood Protection Authority East (SLFPAE) is closing several flood gates to protect from coastal flooding. That will include sector gates along the Industrial Canal and the Permanent Canal Closures and Pumps (PCCPs) along Lake Pontchartrain to keep excess lake water from entering the city's drainage canals. The Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) will work in close coordination with SLFPAE in monitoring the elevations of the drainage outfall canals. In the event of rain, SWBNO and SLFPAE will coordinate to maintain optimal pumping operations. While there is some water on Highways 90 and 11, SLFPAE does not currently anticipate closing the roadway flood gates. Motorists are advised to be extremely cautious and not to drive through flooded roads.
The Flash Flood Watch, which has been in effect since Monday, has now expired. Flooding from heavy rain is not currently forecast. Neutral ground parking will no longer be allowed beginning at 6 p.m. tonight. Residents are asked to take care moving their vehicles from the neutral grounds to prevent damage to tree roots and vegetation.
The perimeter around the former Plaza Tower continues to be closed to vehicle and pedestrian traffic as public safety agencies respond to debris falling from the building due to strong winds. Closures include downtown-bound Loyola Avenue from Calliope to Girod Streets, S Rampart Street from Girod to Calliope Streets, and Howard Avenue in both directions from Loyola Avenue to O'Keefe Street.
The New Orleans Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness continues to monitor the weather and is in constant communication with the National Weather Service and local, state, and federal infrastructure and public safety partners.
Residents are reminded that hurricane season is just around the corner and now is the time to prepare. Gather emergency supplies, review evacuation plans, stay informed, and ensure you are protected with flood insurance. Sign up for emergency alerts by texting NOLAREADY to 77295. For more hurricane prep tips, visit ready.nola.gov/hurricane.
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