CONVENT — Due to a power outage, Fifth Ward Elementary Students will not have school Wednesday. All other schools remain open at this time, according to St. James officials.

At approximately 3:30 p.m., the St. James Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness received notification of a tornado struck in the Convent area near the Sugar Hill RV Park at 9450 Louisiana 44 in Convent.

The Sheriff’s Office has confirmed two fatalities. Acadian Ambulance transported 30 injured individuals to area hospitals. About 100 RVs/trailers have been damaged at the RV park.

Emergency responders assessed damage and injuries.

If you live in the area of Sugar Hill RV Park and are okay, contact the dispatch center at (225) 562-2200.

Parish Government has set up a shelter at the Lutcher Senior Center located on 2631 Louisiana Avenue in Lutcher. The American Red Cross is assisting families in need at the Lutcher Senior Center.

Entergy is reporting that approximately 500 customers are without power in St. James Parish. There were 19 poles broken, possibly more, due to the severe weather. Entergy estimates that power will be restored to all customers in St. James Parish by 5 p.m. on Thursday.

Entergy has dispatched 80 lineman to the area to assist with restoration. Customers with damaged meters may take longer to have power restored.

Residents can sign up to have notifications from St. James Parish Government sent to their home phone, mobile device and/or email by visiting the homepage of the Parish’s website at www.stjamesla.com and clicking the link under the “Emergency Info” section.