Edwards Declares State Of Emergency After Tuesday's Tornadoes

Tornado Touches Down In New Orleans

A tornado-damaged home is seen in Arabi on March 23, 2022. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images)Photo: Getty Images

Gov. John Bel Edwards has declared a state of emergency after tornadoes touched down in southeast Louisiana Tuesday night.

A preliminary assessment from the National Weather Service put the damage associated with the tornado that moved over parts of Jefferson, Orleans and St. Bernard parishes consistent with at least an EF-3, with a full report expected in a day or two.

Another survey team pegged the strength of a tornado that moved across St. Tammany Parish as a possible EF-1.

“Unfortunately this morning, many of our people are waking up with their lives upside down because of the tragic tornadoes last night in St. Bernard, Orleans, Jefferson and St. Tammany parishes. Sadly, one person has died in the storm, and we are praying that there are no more fatalities,” Gov. Edwards said. “Thankfully, local and state responders worked through the night to help as many families as they could overnight, and the work will continue into today and the coming weeks."

"Unfortunately, our people have become all too familiar with rebuilding after tragedy and loss, but it is never easy. My prayers are with everyone who is hurting because of these tornadoes today and I have pledged to local leaders that we will be here to support their long-term recovery efforts," Edwards continued.

St. Bernard Parish officials have confirmed a 25-year-old man died as a result of the severe weather, along with dozens of homes damaged.


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