Emergency Preparedness

"Right now, the priority for the entire state of Louisiana is Hurricane Ida recovery, and we simply cannot afford to have any of our first responders, health care employees, or utility workers pushed out of their hotel rooms for any reason. It's unacceptable that those working around the clock to support our state would be kicked out on the streets," Gov. Edwards said.

Individuals looking for loved ones evacuated from one of the seven nursing homes should call 211, which is coordinating with LDH’s Office of Aging and Adult Services which directly helps to connect families.

This Emergency Order shall be effective immediately and shall remain in effect until September 10, 2021. This order is subject to extensions by the State Health Officer.

Louisiana is experiencing multiple crises that may be leaving residents with feelings of grief, fear, anxiety, depression or anger. From the ongoing recovery from Hurricane Laura, to COVID-19, to Hurricane Ida, emotions are strong and it may be helpful to talk to someone.

The St. John Parish coroner has confirmed the death of a 59-year-old male who died of carbon monoxide poisoning from a generator he was believed to have run run inside his residence. The coroner has confirmed this death is considered storm-related.

Additional deaths include nursing home residents, carbon monoxide poisoning and drowning.

We have been alerted to four deaths among nursing home residents evacuated to a facility on Friday (Aug. 27) in Tangipahoa Parish ahead of Hurricane Ida. Three of these have been classified as storm-related by the coroner. Definitive causes of death have not yet been confirmed.

Considering the devastating impacts and effects of Hurricane Ida on the residents of Louisiana, and the need to coordinate care, services, treatment, and placement for evacuees, Louisiana will allow for the following current relief to ICF/DDs.

The Louisiana Department of Health will close oyster beds in areas 1-28 beginning at sunset on Sunday, August 29, 2021 due to the potential of poor water quality because of Hurricane Ida.

Community-based testing and vaccine sites operated by the Office of Public Health and the Louisiana Army National Guard will close early today in preparation for impacts from Tropical Storm Ida.