WGNO

City of New Orleans provides update on cold weather prep

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Mayor LaToya Cantrell and city officials provided an update on the city-run operations ahead of the severe cold weather heading our way.

Mayor Cantrell was joined by Homeland Security Director Colin Arnold and NORD Commission CEO Larry Barabino. Each encouraged the public to utilize the warming shelters put in place around the city.

“We’ve got plenty of capacity at this point. They did a lot of outreach last night. There has been a real big push to get chronic health individuals into an opportunity where they can go to a more traditional shelter in the city,” said Colin Arnold.

Director Arnold says there is still a lot of bed space available.

A major warning was for drivers to stay away from Lakeshore drive due to high winds pushing waves onto the street causing flooding in the area and possibly frozen roads.

“If you do not have to be out and about, if you do not need to be out, stay home. Be with family, this is holiday time. Make sure you are sharing this time with your family,” said NORDC CEO Larry Barabino. “But if you need to be out and you need to be warm, we are ready and set up at the different warming centers.”

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