Hurricane Laura pounded Louisiana and Texas on the 27th of August 2020, and within 24 hours, it had intensified from Category 1 to a powerful Category 4, with sustained winds of up 150mph (240km/h).
According to the World Meteorological Organization, Hurricane Laura became the most powerful tropical storm to hit Louisiana, surpassing the Category 3 Katrina that struck the state in 2005.
Laura packed strong winds that drove the tides on Mississippi and Neches rivers back upriver as the winds approached land, where they left a wide path of destruction. The storm caused extensive roof damages, property damages, and power outages. Experts estimate the cost of damages to range from $4 billion to $12 billion in Louisiana and Texas.
The surge impacts on the Mississippi River and Neches River were not severe enough to completely reverse the flow of water. A video tweeted by Chris Dier shows barges battling tides as they navigate their way downriver.
The United States Geological Survey also reported that the Army Corps of Engineers’ river gauges indicated a change in currents in both rivers. They believe the changes were a result of tides moving in opposite directions as the storm winds.
While Katrina was a Category 3 rated hurricane, its surge impacts were severe that they caused a complete reversal of flow in 2005. The same thing happened in 2012 when a deadly and destructive tropical cyclone, Hurricane Isaac, struck Louisiana. According to the US Geological Survey, the tropical storm reversed the river flow for almost 24 hours.
Speak With a Hurricane Damage Lawyer
Hurricane Laura has left devastating damages worth billions of dollars. If you have suffered home or business damages or lost property, you might rely on your insurance company to get your life back on track. Unfortunately, some insurers might delay and deny your claim or fail to compensate you fully. Don’t let this happen. Contact The Mahone Firm at (504) 564-7342 to help you fight for the full value of your damages.
