Severe Weather Impact on Central and Southern Louisiana
On May 13, 2024, Central and Southern Louisiana, including Rapides, Avoyelles, and Lafayette Parishes, were struck by severe thunderstorms. These storms brought significant threats of flooding, possible tornadoes, and heavy rainfall, disrupting communities such as Henderson, Alexandria, Marksville, and Lafayette, and causing widespread damage across the regions.
In Central Louisiana, local meteorologists and storm chasers reported that the storms were severe, with high winds up to 80-90 mph and intense rainfall. The National Weather Service issued warnings about the potential for tornado development and advised residents to stay alert (Cenla Weather).
Lafayette Parish experienced similar tumultuous weather, with the Storm Prediction Center indicating a continued risk of severe thunderstorms. This included potential hazards such as damaging winds and hail in the forecasts following the initial storms (SPC). A local utility provider reported 43,000 customers out of power at its peak.
Trees fell on homes and houses and businesses across the parishes lost power. Many people on the roads pulled over during the storm, riding the severe weather out inside of their cars.
Laborde Earles injury was great for me they took care of me very fast and professional. If for any reason I need legal help they will be who I use.
ClientHow to Stay Safe During a Storm
During severe weather events, it’s crucial to stay informed through reliable sources like local weather forecasts and national weather alerts. Here are some safety tips:
- Secure loose items outside your home to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
- Have multiple ways to receive weather warnings, such as NOAA Weather Radio and weather apps.
- Stay indoors during the storm, away from windows, to avoid injury from glass or debris.
- Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, and first-aid supplies.
- You should avoid transportation through flood waters, walking or driving. Water can sweep your vehicle and person away easily.
- Avoid lakes, ponds, swamps, and other bodies of water.
- Do not take shelter under a tree that is standing alone.
- Keep away from power lines outdoors, assuming they have power.
- Do not run any portable generators within an enclosed space. Only connect the generator to the entire house if the connection was installed by a licensed electrician. Otherwise, you could create feedback on the distribution system.
- If you lose power, food will stay cooler if you keep the refrigerator door closed. Try not to open and close the door too much.
I thank God for Digger & David. I don’t know what we would have done if it hadn’t have been for them.
Rick Smith | ClientNavigating Insurance Claims for Storm Damage
After a severe storm, assessing and repairing damage to your property is a priority. When dealing with insurance claims:
- Document all damages with photos or videos before cleaning up.
- Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process.
- Keep receipts for any repairs or temporary accommodations, as these may be reimbursable under your policy.
The reassurance from Digger and his staff gave me that renewed hope that it’s going to be okay down the road.
ClientWhen to Consider Legal Assistance for Insurance Bad Faith Claims
Sometimes, insurance companies may not act in good faith, offering settlements that don’t fully cover the damage or denying legitimate claims. In such cases, it is worth contacting a storm claims attorney for free to see if they can help you get the money you deserve to fix the damage on your property.
Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers can help residents navigate the complexities of insurance claims to ensure they receive fair compensation. In fact, we secured the highest storm claim verdict ever in Louisiana. We can assist if you encounter challenges such as delayed claims processes, unfair denials, or inadequate settlements.
If you need legal advice or assistance with storm-related insurance claims, call Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers today, or chat with an intake specialist on our website.
Stay safe, Louisiana.
