Parish declared 'storm ready' by Weather Service

CROWLEY – “Americans live in the most severe weather-prone country on Earth,” announced Andy Patrick, director of the National Weather Service Bureau in Lake Charles, as he informed the Acadia Parish Police Jury that Acadia Parish has earned the distinction of being designated a “StormReady Community.”

Each year, Americans cope with an average of 10,000 thunderstorms, 2,500 floods, 1,000 tornadoes, as well as an average of six deadly hurricanes.

Patrick said communities could now rely on the National Weather’s StormReady program to help them guard against the ravages of Mother Nature.

StormReady, he explained, helps arm America’s communities with the communication and safety skills needed to save lives and property before and during the event. StormReady helps community leaders and emergency managers strengthen local safety programs.

Patrick said, “StormReady communities are better prepared to save lives from the onslaught of severe weather through better planning, education, and awareness. No community is storm proof, but StormReady can help communities save lives.”

Patrick commended Lee Hebert and his assistant, Kim Boudreaux for their role in achieving the designation.