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WASHINGTON— U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D., U.S. Senator David Vitter, U.S. Representative Ralph Abraham, U.S. Representative Charles Boustany, U.S. Representative John Fleming, U.S. Representative Garret Graves, U.S. Representative Cedric Richmond and U.S. Representative Steve Scalise sent a letter in support of Governor Edwards’ request for a federal disaster declaration for the State of Louisiana due to severe storms and flooding.
“It is expected that the emergency response capacity will exceed the capability of state resources. As a result, we request that vital federal resources be pre-positioned and released to assist state and local government to appropriately monitor risks, preserve property and implement preventive measures for residents, including potential sheltering operations,” write the Members. “An effective federal response and assistance is necessary to ensure the safety of our citizens, mitigate property damage and lessen the threat of a disaster.”
Read the letter here and below:
The Honorable Barack Obama President of the United States The White House Washington, DC 20500
Dear President Obama,
We are writing to express our support for Governor Edwards’ request for a federal disaster declaration for the State of Louisiana effective March 14, 2016. On March 13, 2016 Bossier, Claiborne, Grant, Morehouse, Ouachita, Richland, and Webster Parishes were approved for a major disaster declaration as a result of the severe storms and flooding that began March 8, 2016.
Last week a strong upper level storm system brought showers and thunderstorms from west to east across most of the State. Heavy rainfall, flash flooding, river flooding and damaging winds were the main threats associated with this front. These threats have led to severe flooding which resulted in significant damages and disruptions for families, homes, and businesses across Louisiana.
As of today, reports from the National Weather Service (NWS) indicate that river stations throughout Louisiana are expected to exceed flood stage. A record flood wave has begun moving down the Lower Sabine River and is expected to peak in the Bon Wier area. Major flooding is also expected along the Calcasieu River Basin, as well as flooding along the lower Neches River Basin. Throughout southeastern Louisiana numerous rivers are currently experiencing floods.
Officials in Beauregard, Bienville, Caddo, Caldwell, Desoto, LaSalle, Livingston, Madison, Natchitoches, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Union, Vernon, Washington, West Carrol, and Winn Parishes have made emergency declarations and are currently taking measures to protect their communities. Other parishes are also considering similar declarations.
It is expected that the emergency response capacity will exceed the capability of state resources. As a result, we request that vital federal resources be pre-positioned and released to assist state and local government to appropriately monitor risks, preserve property and implement preventive measures for residents, including potential sheltering operations. An effective federal response and assistance is necessary to ensure the safety of our citizens, mitigate property damage and lessen the threat of a disaster.
We look forward to working with you to help the residents of the threatened areas in their time of need, and eagerly await your response. |