Governor Edwards declares a state of emergency for Louisiana due to the extreme heat

Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards has declared a state of emergency for Louisiana due to concerns that have brought on by extreme heat throughout the state. Over the past couple of months, there have been dozens of high temperature records set, some days with a heat index of 115 degrees or above. Also, the extreme drought that recently resulted in a Louisiana being place under a statewide burn ban.

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A statement released on Monday, August 14th per the Governor's official website, https://gov.louisiana.gov/ read:

Today, Gov. John Bel Edwards declared a state of emergency due to the multiple impacts of extreme heat affecting the state.

“This summer, the National Weather Service has issued a record number of excessive heat warnings for Louisiana,” said Gov. Edwards. “The Louisiana Department of Health reports that the state has already exceeded the average number of annual heat-related emergency room visits. Additionally, drought conditions and a significant drop in the Mississippi River’s water level have added stress on water supplies and agriculture. This declaration will allow the state to mobilize resources and aid those most affected. Please continue to take precautions when you are outside and check on neighbors who might need assistance.”

A state of emergency is an administrative step that authorizes the use of state resources to aid in emergency response efforts. The Governor’s Office and GOHSEP will continue to update the public on heat-related threats, in addition to any other weather emergencies.

Sadly, there were 16 heat-related deaths that were reported in June and July, according to the state's Department of Health and local EMS has been responding to multiple heat-related calls on a daily basis.