Should I leave the Lafayette, Louisiana because of tropical storm Gustav?

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wdw101b

I am leaving tonight, because it's a holiday weekend and what have I got to lose? The though of going without a/c in 104 degree heat and non-potable water for at least a week after the storm has sent me packing. New Orleans may be innundated, but Lafayette absolutely will be, regardless, due to the rains that accompany wherever the storm hits. Also, there is the terrible traffic jam that you'll run into if you wait till the last minute to evacuate. I was getting gas today and already people are geting meaner at the pump and driving more idiotically in general. It's your call, but it is probably safer to go if you especially have somewhere to go.

wright

I have been through many Lafayette hurricanes. It fairs pretty well. Electricity gets knocked out for many of the homes. Trees,( like water cypess) come down. If you live in a well built home they say you will have minimal damage if a cat 4 would hit. But,trailers will have total distruction. Homes not built well could have severe damage and the roof could get damaged pretty bad. Make sure you have at least 3 days of food and water. Fill the bathtub with water so you can use a small bucket to flush the toilet. Tape windows and tie everything down that could fly away. (ex: swingsets) Big glass windows and doors should be boarded. We were supposed to have a cat 4 or 5 in 2002, but it died down to a 3 when it landed. It was not real bad. Be careful of powerlines! Be sure to have utility and important numbers handy. Gather important documents, especially homeowners ins. also, if you start freezing water in ziploc bags now and place them in your freezer and refridgerator when your power goes out, it will keep things cold fo almost a week. Take care,and God Bless and protect you all.

garrisonbight

2 winters ago I spent 6 months in New Iberia and that whole town was under water from just normal storms. Lafayette is just a vulnerable and if a major hurricane hits in the Morgan City area... which is what I hear mentioned the most... there won't be a dry place to walk in Lafayette.

Safety first. I've been through a number of Hurricanes and every time I promise myself not to do something that stupid again...

Connor S

I am a truck driver that just brought bottled water to Lafayette. I can tell you I-49 north bound is jammed for 60 mile north. If you are planning on leaving I would leave now and take food and water and extra gas if your route includes I-49 north bound.

idodgesubs

unless you live across the vermillion or atch. river, i lived in lafayette louisiana for ...almost 10 years, and it's never flooded.

AllAmericanRejectsFan

well i live in baton rouge, i think the western part of louisisana is ok, maybe new orleans whould

NOLA guy

It is too early to know where Gustav will make landfall, and how strong the storm will be when it does.

Just watch the news and make plans & preparations in case you do have to leave.

Good luck!

artemis_moonsong

The projected path at the moment takes the eye of Gustav right over Lafayette. I live in Lafayette, too ... I left this morning to beat the I-10 traffic. Remember, hurricanes bring more than storm surge: they also bring extremely strong winds, including tornadoes. When Rita passed near Lake Charles, it sent two trees into my grandmother's house, and one into my parent's kitchen. I shudder to think what may have happened had they not evacuated.

Leave now!

La Vie Boheme

I would wait to see if they announce an evacuation.

Jennifer D

nope. just stay. many are evacuating from lower cities and moving up to lafayette. the news says that if you live in a good home, (not a trailer) then you will be able to withstand the winds. (which are predicted to be up to 100mph).

AshShowLee

that is only something you can decide....if it floods in your neborhood i would go somewhere a little more safer,but i would ride it out....lafayette is a little more safer than lets say pecan island.....new iberia here by the way and im staying,.....beats riding it out on I10 trying to find a place to stay.

Mr. Answers

Wait a couple days to see the updated path. If it hits Louisiana, it won't until monday so there's still time.

mecawood

I dont have an answer, I have a question. I live in a mobile home on the south side of Lafayette near Ambassador/Kaliste Saloom. I plan to leave on Sunday, early afternoon, appr. 2 pm to go to Alexandria, La.. Do you know if I-49 North should still be open? Also, what is your opinion on the damage to expect to my mobile home with Gustav's current specs? You can be honest because I am preparing myself for the worst. I have packed pictures and documents in plastic boxes and taped them - dont really know what else to do ??? You guys all stay safe !! Thanks

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