By Message Staff While Tropical Storm Cindy is still in the Gulf of Mexico and moving slowly, Louisianans are already experiencing the effects of the storm and state officials are taking no chances with the approaching storm. Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards has declared a state of emergency Wednesday, June 21, for the entire state. “All arms of the state’s emergency preparedness and response apparatus are taking Tropical Storm Cindy seriously, and we are calling on all Louisianans throughout the state to do so as well,” Edwards said. “State and local officials are working around the clock to monitor and respond to dangerous situations as they develop. In the meantime, please do all you can to prepare for the worst while praying for the best.” Voluntary Evacuations According to the Associated Press, workers on Grand Isle were trying to reinforce a rock levee protecting the island’s west side, which is vulnerable. They were advising anyone wanting to head for the mainland to do so, though an evacuation was not issued. The Vermillion Parish Office of Homeland Security also was encouraging residents in low lying areas in the parish or special needs residents to voluntarily evacuate. The AP also reported that the … [Read more...]