LAFAYETTE, LA – Louisiana state authorities on Monday, March 12, declared a state of emergency in four south Louisiana parishes because of flash flooding in the wake of overnight thunderstorms. The parishes covered are Lafayette, Acadia, St. Landry and St. Martin.

There were some evacuations in and around the community of Carencro, located in the Lafayette Parish. 

Now is a good time to review the Louisiana Public Safety Services’ tips on how to prevent hydroplaning so you can remind your drivers to exercise special precautions during heavy-rain conditions:

• Reduce speed and drive slowly on wet roadways.

• Have tires inflated to recommended air pressure.

• Be sure you have good tire tread, which helps water escape quickly through the grooves of the tire. All-weather tires are good.

• Steer around water when possible.

• If you hear a slushing sound from the tires, especially when changing directions, slow down.

• If hydroplaning occurs, recover control by keeping your wheels straight and reducing your speed. This will allow the tires and the road to regain contact.

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development on March 12 announced the following road closures throughout the Acadiana region because of flash flooding:

• LA 93 in Lafayette and St. Landry Parish

• LA 182 (University Ave.), in Lafayette Parish, is closed north of Pont des Mouton to LA 358

• LA 347 (Grand Point Rd.), in St. Martin Parish, is closed in Breaux Bridge from the city limits heading north to Doyle Melancon

• LA 347, in St. Martin Parish, is closed north of I-10 to the Webster Meat Market

• LA 98 (Gloria Switch Rd.), in Lafayette Parish, from I-49 West to Mill St.

Louisiana drivers can get updates on road conditions and real-time traffic by using the 511 Traveler Information System. You can access that system by dialing 511 from your phone and indicating the specific route or region you’re interested in. Out-of-state travelers can call 1-888-762-3511.

Travelers can also receive such updates by visiting the 511 traveler information website at www.511la.org, or contacting DOTD’s customer service center at 1-877-452-3683 from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday through Friday.