Members,
We want to extend our prayers to all of those who have been affected, displaced or seen damage as a result of the severe weather that has impacted Southwest and Central Louisiana. As additional rains are expected across the state over the next several days, we want to be a resource to our members and industry.
If there is anything you or your community are in need of and believe we can help provide, please reach out to our team or members. We have a strong network of members throughout the state who can provide helpful resources. We also have contacts throughout various local and state governments who may be of assistance.
If you have any questions or require assistance, do not hesitate to contact our team or membership.
We hope you all stay safe, and keep on trucking!
Sincerely,
The LMTA Team
Renee Amar
Executive Director
renee@lmta.la
C: 225-287-0117
Allison Strahan
Communications Coordinator
allison@lmta.la
Burton Comeaux
Accounting Director
burton@lmta.la
Gov. Edwards Declares State of Emergency for Severe Weather
On Monday Gov. John Bel Edwards declared a state of emergency due to the ongoing severe weather impacting Southwest Louisiana. Numerous Flash Flood Warnings and Tornado Warnings have already been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS). Additional rains are expected across the state for the next several days.
The
Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) is urging all Louisianans to plan accordingly. Flash flooding from heavy rains can happen very quickly. GOHSEP also encourages everyone to avoid flooded roadways. Do not remove or drive around barricades. Visit
www.511la.org for road updates during an emergency.
LA DOTD Updates, Announcements & Resources
As of Tuesday, May 18 there are over a dozen announcements from the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development due to flooding or severe weather. We have highlighted some below, but urge members to continue to refer to the DOTD site and select the "Road or Lane Status" from the dropdown menu for updates.
· I-10 West is closed to traffic from Highland Road to Siegen Lane due to water on the roadway. (Traffic is being directed to US 61)
· I-10 East is closed to traffic from Siegen Lane to Highland Road due to water on the roadway. (Advisory to avoid route:Traffic must exit on Siegen)
We suggest that members monitor the LA DOTD website and selecting the "Road or Lane Status" from the dropdown menu for the most up-to-date information.
511 Traveler Information:
Travelers can also find information regarding road closures by visiting the 511 Traveler Information website at
www.511la.org or by dialing 511 from their telephone and saying the route or region about which they are seeking information.
Out-of-state travelers can access the system by calling 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511).
FMCSA Updates, Emergency Declarations, etc.
As of Tuesday, May 18, there are no FMCSA Emergency Declarations, Waivers, Exemptions or Permits specifically due to severe weather.
The Amended Regional Emergency Waiver due to the unanticipated shutdown of the Colonial Pipeline remains in place.
The LMTA will send an email update on any additional FMCSA announcements due to severe weather. We suggest that members monitor the
FMCSA website for the most up-to-date information.