Tropical Storm Karen: Governor Declares State Of Emergency
Tropical Storm Karen is heading for the Gulf Coast. The storm’s predicted path prompted Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal to declare a state of emergency. The National Weather Service issued a Hurricane Watch, Tropical Storm Watch, and a Coastal Flood Advisory, for the entire area.
The declaration allows state officials to prepare for the storm. The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness will facilitate the preparations and any emergency response.
As reported by The New Star, coastal parishes may experience heavy rain, damaging winds, and flash flooding. Inland parishes are also in danger of flooding.
The storm is expected to hit the Gulf Coast this weekend. The NWS says Tropical Storm Karen has the potential to develop “hurricane force winds” before making landfall.
Meteorologist David Zelinsky said the storm is forecast to strike land as “a weak hurricane or strong tropical storm.” Either possibility carries the potential for heavy rain and a strong storm surge.
As reported by CBS News, weather consultant David Bernard said the storm will likely stall over the coast, leading to long periods of heavy rain.
The tropical storm is currently located around 400 miles from the coast. The maximum sustained winds are close to 65 mph. The storm is traveling north-northwest at 12 mph.
Forecasters said a cold front may affect the storm’s path. If the cold front moves in before this weekend, the storm could strike Alabama or Florida’s Panhandle.
Several oil companies evacuated non-essential employees from offshore platforms within the storm’s projected path. Offshore rigs are being secured to prevent damage.
Grand Isle Mayor David Camardelle is also making preparations for the storm. Although an evacuation has not been ordered, residents are asked to clear any drainage ditches or culverts on and around their property. City maintenance crews are currently testing the community’s pump stations.
Tropical Storm Karen has the potential to develop into a hurricane. However, the path and strength are difficult to predict. As the storm moves closer to the coast, forecasters will have more accurate data.
[Image via Flickr]
