9:30 AM Newscast

Louisiana has declared a state of emergency as the Mississippi River approaches flood levels. The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness spokesperson Mike Steele says there are no major problems looming but those living in flood-prone areas should be ready for a battle of attrition this rain season

Cut 7 (10) “…long time.”

Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves has been named the top Republican on the newly reformed Climate Crisis panel. Graves joins five other Republicans on the panel that will be led by Democrat Kathy Castor of Florida. The Congressman says he’ll use his position to push back against climate change policies from non-energy producing states that would impact Louisiana’s economy.

Cut 13 (10) “…disadvantage”

 

 

The FAA has now confirmed two people were killed in a plane crash in North Louisiana.  Authorities suspect the plane that lost contact with the tower Thursday shortly after takeoff from the Shreveport Downtown Airport, and the aircraft may be located just north of the airport in the Red River. Professional divers from South Louisiana have been hired to aid in the recovery of the plane from Red River. Authorities say although not visible from the surface, they’ve been able to use sonar technology to detect what they believe is a submerged plane.

Cut 10 (08)“…the water.”

That was Caddo Parish Spokesperson Cindy Chadwick
Mardi Gras celebrations continue around the state.  In Lafayette, the weekend festivities got kicked off last night, with parades on today.  Executive Director of Convention and Visitors Commission Ben Berthelot says the party doesn’t stop when the parades are finished as the area offers plenty of great nightlife.

Cut 4 (09) “…Downtown Lafayette.″