More than half a dozen tornadoes have just ripped through New Orleans and caused massive devastation to homes and businesses. The Louisiana governor has declared a state of emergency and dispatched the National Guard.
Here’s what we know: two of the monster storms struck in Orleans Parish, two touched down in Livingston Parish and three others hit Tangipahoa, Ascension and St. James parishes.
More than 12,000 people have lost power, and some of the worst damage was in the New Orleans area, including neighborhoods that had previously felt the wrath of Hurricane Katrina.
At least 25 residents have been treated for injuries. No deaths have been reported, though many residents were trapped beneath their collapsing homes or pummeled with flying debris.
The tornado watch was lifted in southeastern Louisiana around 2 p.m. on Tuesday, but Mississippi, parts of Florida and Mobile, Alabama remain under tornado watch.
Gov. John Bel Edwards has sent out the National Guard to assist in recovery efforts and prevent looting. State and local officials are asking people to stay away from the disaster area, and some entrances to Interstate 10 remain closed.
