LAPLACE — Due to the inability to sustain water pressure Parishwide as a result of more than 100 leaks, excessive water use and freeze precautions, St. John the Baptist Parish President Natalie Robottom declared a state of emergency effective 9:30 p.m. Wednesday (Jan. 17).

Residents are urged to stop water use immediately in an effort to replenish potable water systems ahead of another forecasted night of freezing temperatures.

“Please stop water use immediately!” a statement from Parish Government read.

Little to no water pressure is affecting the Parish due to excessive use, isolated leaks and broken pipes, according to St. John officials.

Businesses and homeowners with back flow preventers should monitor them regularly for leaks

Weather/Advisories:

Temperatures will warm today (mid 40s) before dropping below freezing again Thursday night.

There is a Hard Freeze Warning and Wind Chill Advisory.

A list of freeze precautions is available at sjbparish.com.

A pencil thin faucet drip should be used as a last resort during freezing temperatures, officials said, asking residents to shut off water once temperatures improve

Conserve Energy:

Entergy is asking customers to reduce electricity due to high demand.

Tips include: lowering the thermostat to 68 degrees or lower, delaying laundry, washing dishes, bathing until later in the day.

Don’t allow warm air to escape from the home. Fill holes and gaps where wiring and pipes enter house.

Roads:

• I-10 is closed from Lafayette to Kenner
• I-55 is closed in both directions

For the latest road closures, dial 511

Parish sites will be updated throughout the day at sjbparish.com and on Facebook

Sign up for emergency text messages and emails, visit sjbparish.com and click on “Stay Connected.”