BATON ROUGE (July 21, 2026) – The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and
Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) is beginning 24 hour operations in the State
Emergency Operations Center as Tropical Storm Bertha moves westward. A Tropical
Storm Warning and Tropical Storm Watch issued by the National Weather Service
currently includes portions of Louisiana. Current threats include minor to moderate
storm surge flooding, tropical storm force winds and storms producing heavy rainfall.
“We strongly encourage the public to stay weather aware over the next few days as this
system moves in our direction,” said GOHSEP Director Brigadier General Jason
Mahfouz. “Any changes to the forecast could change the impact to our state. Pay
attention to those impacts and the conditions you may face. Check your emergency
supplies. Strong winds could result in power outages. Check on friends or loved ones
who may need assistance. Stay informed with any information shared by your local
emergency managers and local leaders.”
GOHSEP has begun coordination calls with parish emergency directors and stands
ready to respond. The Crisis Action Team will analyze any requests for support from our
local partners and look for the most efficient way to provide those resources.
For those impacted last month by Tropical Storm Arthur, GOHSEP’s recovery staff will
continue that effort even as we face this new threat.
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Download the revamped Get A Game Plan App for more information on Louisiana’s
emergency management efforts. Please follow GOHSEP’s social media accounts on
Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. You can download the Louisiana Emergency
Preparedness Guide and find other preparedness information at
www.getagameplan.org.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Mike Steele
mike.steele@la.gov
225-788-0095
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