I hope that everyone is well and has weathered the storm. We're all grateful that the levees held and the city escaped major damage. I spent the day assessing buildings and found that by and large, we're in good shape. It also looks like our modular buildings held up well. There a few buildings with blown-out windows, and we may have to find some alternate locations if that damage can't be quickly repaired.
Although we escaped major damage, large portions of New Orleans and surrounding parishes remain without power. Every school I visited today was without power.
Our plan is to keep RSD schools closed until Monday, but of course this will depend on how quickly power can be restored. City officials have indicated that we should have power in two to three days. By Thursday, we should have a better idea of when we'll get power back. We'll make our final decision then. Please continue to monitor the emergency information page on this Web site and sources such as WWL radio and NOLA.com for updates.
Based on reports we're getting from city and parish leaders, those of you who live in Jefferson Parish residents will be able to return to your homes Wednesday after 6 a.m.
New Orleans residents will be able to return to the city after 12:01 a.m. on Thursday, when the mandatory evacuation is lifted and replaced with a voluntary evacuation. A dusk-to-dawn curfew will still be in place until further notice.
No timeline has been set yet for Plaquemines Parish residents to return. Residents can return to St. Bernard Parish and St. Tammany Parish after 6 a.m. Wednesday. St. Charles residents are being allowed to return, but St. John remains closed to residents.
If you are planning to return, be aware that power has not been restored to many areas and you may be without basic necessities and conveniences. You should plan to bring your own supply of food and water.
Please be careful in the days ahead. I wish you and your families the best. Thanks to all of you who have sent your prayers and good wishes during this challenging time.
