Lt Governor Billy Nungesser says the devastation he’s seen so far from Ida is comparable to Katrina, and ironically both storms came ashore on the same date just 16 years apart. Nungesser says it’s going to be a long haul for recovery. Now that winds have died down first responders like the National Guard, Wildlife and Fisheries and others are out making rescues. Nungesser says the main priority today is reaching those who are in peril.
AT& T reports that Ida has caused major impacts and the wireless network is operating at 60-percent in Louisiana. The cellphone network also says they have significant outages in New Orleans and Baton Rouge due to power outages, flooding, and storm damage.
Tangipahoa Parish President Robby Miller says they are trying to get emergency crews out to answer 9-1-1 calls that came in last night but before first responders can venture out, they have to get clearance from Entergy due to the number of down powerlines. Miller encourages residents to be mindful as well.
Coastal parishes of southeast Louisiana are reporting catastrophic damage from Hurricane Ida. Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s office Captain Brennan Matherne says he rode out the storm in Galliano and experienced Ida’s wrath for several hours. He says the eye of the storm crossed over the town of Lockport