Press Release (Media/Web) DOTD encourages motorists to use caution as severe weather expected to impact areas across Louisiana
Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at 3:27:10 PM
BATON ROUGE, LA – With the threat of severe storms and heavy rains across areas of Louisiana today and tomorrow, the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development encourages motorists to use caution when traveling on roadways and stay off the roads whenever possible.
Motorists should watch for flooded roadways and avoid driving into standing or running water.
Drivers should also follow these tips when driving during and after a rainfall event:
- Drive slowly and carefully
- Turn lights on when using windshield wipers
- Avoid driving while distracted
- Always allow for extra driving time
- Reduce speeds when visibility is low
- Make sure there is plenty of room between vehicles
- Avoid driving into standing or running water
- Avoid using highway overpasses as tornado shelters
- Avoid using cruise control during inclement weather
As always, DOTD reminds motorists to buckle up and refrain from drinking and driving.
DOTD will be monitoring the roadways for possible flooding, to remove fallen trees from the roadway, and to close any roads as needed. Motorists should refrain from removing DOTD barricades and cones on closed roadways for safety purposes.
Motorists are encouraged to check the status of road conditions prior to beginning commutes by utilizing the following resources for the latest information regarding road conditions:
- 511 Traveler Information: Travelers can find information regarding road closures by visiting the 511 Traveler Information website at www.511la.org or by dialing 511 from their telephone and saying the route or region about which they are seeking information. You may also download the Louisiana 511 mobile app. Out-of-state travelers can access the system by calling 1-888-ROAD-511 (1-888-762-3511).
- MyDOTD: Motorists can receive automatic and up-to-date information on local projects, lane and road closures, and other DOTD activity by signing up for MyDOTD at www.dotd.la.gov.
- Social Media: Additional information can be found at DOTD's Facebook and X (Twitter) pages.
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