Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

LAPLACE — Hurricane Delta boasted 115 mph winds Tuesday morning as it continued to rapidly intensify in the west-central Caribbean.

Meteorologists projected the storm to strengthen to major hurricane status and enter the Gulf of Mexico early Wednesday. A curve to the north is expected to bring heavy rain, coastal flooding and damaging winds to Southeast Louisiana by the end of the week.

St. John the Baptist Parish remains in the cone designating the probable path of the storm center. Early this week, Governor John Bel Edwards and the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness urged the public to take preparations now.

“It’s unfortunate to have another system threaten Louisiana’s coastal parishes, but it is a situation we are prepared to handle. It is common for many people to experience hurricane fatigue during a busy season, but we need everyone to take this threat seriously,” Edwards said. “That starts with staying weather aware and watching for updates from the National Hurricane Center, the National Weather Service office for your region and your local media. While we hope the forecast improves, we must prepare for the threat on hand.”

Please remember the following hurricane safety tips:

• If flash flooding becomes a problem due to heavy rainfall, never drive on flooded roadways. Visit the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development’s website 511la.orgfor updated road closure information.
• Finalize an emergency communications plan with family and co-workers.
• Check emergency supplies and remember to include any items needed to sustain each family member for at least three days.

Emergency supply kits should include the following:

• A three to five- day supply of water (one gallon per person per day) and food that won’t spoil
• A supply of face coverings, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes due to COVID-19 concerns
• One change of clothing and footwear per person, and one blanket or sleeping bag per person
• A first aid kit that includes your family’s prescription medications
• Emergency tools including a battery-powered radio, flashlight and plenty of extra batteries
• An extra set of car keys and a credit card, cash or traveler’s checks
• Sanitation supplies
• Special items for infant, elderly or disabled family members
• An extra pair of glasses
• Important family documents in a portable, waterproof container
• Mess kits, paper cups, plates and plastic utensils, paper towels
• Paper and pencil
• Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children
• Infant formula and diapers
• Pet food and water

The Louisiana Emergency Preparedness Guide and find other information can be accessed atwww.getagameplan.org.

St. John the Baptist Parish is closely monitoring Hurricane Delta. For the latest from St. John, text SJPWEATHER to 888-777.