The Sunshine Bridge is still on course for its January reopening after the bridge was closed due to a barge carrying a crane colliding with the structure last month. DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett says the arrival of the jacking system to realign the bridge ensures the momentum is moving forward to hitting the anticipated reopening time frame.
The Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine has received a 10-million dollar donation from Herman and hsi wife Connier Soong. Vet School Senior Director of Development Tracy Evans says the money will fund several initiatives including a scholarship for underrepresented students at the SVM, but all started when Connie Soong pledged two million dollars to help care for local animals in need.
A tornado watch is in effect for the north portion of the state until 11PM. A line of rough thunderstorms is impacting north and central Louisiana primarily that started this afternoon and continues into the night. Multiple tornadoes touched down in the state last week, including two EF-2 rated twisters in Washington Parish. National Weather Service Meteorologist Aaron Davis says that kind of damage is unlikely this time around…
Cut 10 (10) “…tornado threat“
Dangerous winds, and not heavy rains, have been cited as the primary threat from this system. Large hail is also a possibility with this system.
Monroe Police have made an arrest in connection with the multiple bomb threats called into medical facilities in North Louisiana. The multi-agency investigation resulted in the arrest of 28 year old Pauline Copeland, who authorities says appears to suffer from mental illness. Copeland will be charged with two counts of terrorizing and booked into the Ouachita Parish Correctional Facility.