FOX 8 News received this news release from Plaquemines Parish government Monday afternoon:
Update September 3, 2012 2:00 p.m.
Plaquemines Parish is continuing to work around the clock to assure a speedy return to all residents, businesses, and employees. There are currently 4 pumps working on the west bank to pump water out of the area between LaReussite and West Pointe-la-Hache. There are also 12 intentional breeches on the back levee of the west bank to allow water to flow out of the area. Water is still as much as four feet deep in some areas. We are anticipating that high water vehicles can drive down Hwy 23 in 1-3 days; and are anticipating that cars can drive down Hwy 23 within 5-7 days.
On the east bank there are 9 intentional breeches on the back levee to allow water to flow out of the area between Braithwaite and Whiteditch.
The lower end of the eastbank past Whiteditch, and on the west bank Boothville-Venice, and Pointe-a-la-Hache are still under a boil water advisory. Salinity levels in this area are high because of the salt wedge in the Mississippi River. Those with low sodium diets should monitor their salt intake and drink bottled water. We are currently waiting approval from DHH to start pumping water to tanks in these areas.
MRE's and water are available for pick-up at Idlewild at 11422 Hwy 23 in Belle Chasse, the Port Sulphur Fire Station at 114 Civic Dr., and the Boothville-Venice Fire Station at 42661 Hwy 23 daily from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Tarps and ice are available for pick-up at Idlewild.
A FEMA Disaster Recovery Center is set up at the Belle Chasse Auditorium at 8398 Hwy 23 in Belle Chasse. The Disaster Recovery Center will be open from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. daily. Residents affected can register for individual assistance or transitional assistance or receive more information at 1-800-621-FEMA or go to www.disasterassistance.gov.
Entergy continues to work in Plaquemines Parish in order to restore power to all residents and businesses. Entergy estimates that Belle Chasse through the Alliance Refinery including the Navy Base and Jesuit Bend should have power by the end of the day. They estimate that the southern end of the Parish on the west bank, including Buras and Port Sulphur, will have power within 2-4 days. It is estimated that the lower end of the east bank will have power within 4-6 weeks. These estimates are barring any severe damages to equipment or machinery.
DOTD and FEMA have debris contracts in place. Those interested in working should contact Holiday Construction at 601-795-4389, IPS at 361-8216, and Hardrock Construction at 835-1050.
The National Guard is working with the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff's Office and the State Police to assure the safety of all residents and businesses in the Parish.
