Wednesday afternoon

I am currently located in Slidell, LA and am having intermittent access and power. Slidell is located on the north side of Lake Ponchatrain and has been getting hit all day by winds and rain. Gusts have been very strong at times. A tree fell blocking the road but EMS was quick on getting it cleared. There are widespread power outages and many road closures. I personally know that a tree has fallen at my apartment taking down the fence and driveway gates. At this stage we are awaiting an update from Tulane at 5:00 pm but likely the University and all facilities will be closed on Thursday. This is a very very slow moving storm going in at an angle. The angle is keeping the metro area in storm conditions for an extended period of time. I believe the Recovery Center has power at this stage. We will inform staff as soon as possible on re-opening.