Nearly 900 disaster victims from Texas are taking shelter in Louisiana. That’s according to Governor John Bel Edwards, who says the state is prepared to take in 3,000 more of our neighbors, who can be housed at shelters in Lake Charles, Alexandria, and Shreveport. Edwards urges the public to continue to prepare for potential storms, as hurricane season is far from over. He says right now they are watching Category 3 Hurricane Irma in the Atlantic.

Cut 13 (10) “12 days”

A team of 10 Baton Rouge area firefighters are heading to Port Arthur, Texas, to assist with the Harvey relief efforts, as the city is reportedly underwater. Task Force 2 consists of seven firefighters from Baton Rouge, two from Hammond, and one from Zachary. The team of trained rescuers will be in Texas for two weeks.

The state department of agriculture is helping with pet evacuations from Texas. Ag Commissioner Mike Strain says they have 100 kennels in Lake Charles, and they are preparing for an additional 500 pets in Alexandria. He says donations of dog and cat food are welcome.

Cut 10 (09) “boulevard”

State Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon is urging Louisiana residents to purchase flood insurance as we’re seeing an uptick of historic flooding events. He says when congress reconvenes next month, he will push for significant changes to the National Flood Insurance Program.

Cut 5 (11) “replacement cost”