Hurricane Gustav Response Update

Release date: 09/03/2008

Contact Information: Dave Bary or Tressa Tillman at 214-665-2200 or r6press@epa.gov

(Dallas, Texas – September 3, 2008) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) are working together to assess damage in the Hurricane Gustav impacted areas of southern Louisiana.

EPA has deployed response personnel to the FEMA coordination center in Baton Rouge and other locations near Lafayette.

The first joint reconnaissance flight showed no emergencies at facilities and structural damage in limited areas. A team of EPA water experts was deployed today to assist state officials with assessments of drinking water and waste water plants in Louisiana. Boil water notices have been issued by many parishes until power has been restored. Check with your local system for instructions and warnings.

Helpful information on drinking water, private water wells, generator safety and precautions in returning home is available to the public at local assistance centers and the EPA Web site at www.epa.gov/hurricane. For information about the LDEQ’s activities, visit http://www.deq.louisiana.gov/.