City Continues Preparations for Storms Marco, Laura
Alexandria, La. (August 23, 2020) — Workers with the City of Alexandria continue to actively prepare for the possibility of high winds and heavy rain this week from two potential hurricanes, Tropical Storm Marco, which is currently forecast to move through the Alexandria area Monday night and Tuesday, and Tropical Storm Laura, which could impact the area Thursday.
National Weather Service forecasts indicate Alexandria could get 3-6 inches of rain from Tropical Storm Marco Monday night and Tuesday. The path of Tropical Storm Laura continues to shift, but preliminary estimates are around 8 inches of rainfall for Alexandria associated with that storm. Alexandria residents concerned about flooding may get free sandbags from self-service locations starting at 8 a.m. Monday at the Johnny Downs Sports Complex, Bringhurst Field, Cheatham Park, Frank O. Hunter Park and the Rapides Parish 911 in Martin Park. Elderly and infirm residents may pickup free pre-filled sandbags from the city’s Consolidated Compound at 2021 Industrial Park Road from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday. Workers will be available to load the sandbags for residents in a drive-thru setting.
In addition to sandbags, city workers have been working to clear storm drains and pick up tree debris ahead of the storm. Officials ask residents to refrain from placing any additional tree waste out at the curb this week, especially between the two storms, as it could clog storm drains.
“We are looking at the possibility of having back to back tropical storms move through Alexandria this week, which is very unusual,” said Mayor Jeffrey W. Hall. “The time is now to prepare for both storms. While we may not get as much rain and flooding from the first storm, Marco, we expect more rain from the second storm, Laura, and we encourage residents to get sandbags and make whatever preparations they need to make for both storms right now. We may not get much of a break between the two storms.”
As part of basic preparations, residents should secure loose items around houses that could be blown in the wind, make sure you have working flashlights, make sure cell phone batteries are charged and that you have a way to monitor weather conditions to react if an emergency arises. Also, officials recommend people in low-lying, flood-prone areas ensure that vehicles are filled with gasoline and parked on high ground to be accessible should flooding occur.
Utility System Director Michael Marcotte reminds residents that shelter procedures will be very different due to COVID-19 concerns and social distancing requirements. “Sheltering this season will not look like it has in the past,” Marcotte said. “As part of their preparations, residents who live in vulnerable areas, and particularly those in mobile homes and low-lying flood-prone areas, should make arrangements for sheltering through a friend or relative as part of their personal plan.”
Marcotte also reminds residents that if power outages occur as a result of the storm, customers may report outages online through the AlexConnects app or by calling (318) 473-1301. Downed wires, poles, and other equipment should be reported to the Electric Distribution Department at (318) 473-1301. Residents are also reminded to avoid downed lines as they may still be energized. Residents are also encouraged to exercise caution while driving as crews and equipment are clearing debris and making repairs along many roads throughout the city.
The Mayor’s Office will provide updates on the Alexandria City Government Facebook page as well as the city website at www.cityofalexandriala.com.
Contact:
Jim Smilie
Communications
318.449.5038 (Office)
318.730.1683 (Cell)
jim.smilie@cityofalex.com
