US: Damages, disruptions reported following the passage of tornado over the New Orleans area, Louisiana, Dec. 14 /update 1

Event

Disruptions are likely for the coming hours in the New Orleans area of Louisiana following the passage of at least two tornadoes Dec. 14. At least 30,000 customers in the area lost electricity following the extreme weather, and numerous buildings were affected in Orleans, Saint Bernard, Saint Charles, and Jefferson parishes. The city of Gretna, in Jefferson Parish, was initially hit, followed by Arabi, Saint Bernard Parish. There are no confirmed casualties in this area. However, authorities say three people have died around Louisiana due to earlier tornadoes, including one in Saint Charles Parish, west of New Orleans. The two others were killed in Caddo Parish, in the state's northwest.

Authorities continue to assess the situation, and additional damage and casualties may be reported over the coming hours. Ground transport may be affected through at least Dec. 15, while power outages may continue for several days in some of the affected areas.

Advice

Strictly heed instructions of authorities. Avoid leaving your residence, especially in areas where road damages were possible. Postpone driving until weather conditions improve. Charge battery-powered devices in case prolonged electricity outages occur. Monitor local media for updated emergency and weather information.