Hurricane Barry weakens to a tropical storm and makes landfall in Louisiana today, latest path, track – live updates – CBS News

Some Louisianans choosing to stay behind

President Trump’s emergency declaration frees up more federal resources and will help coordinate the response to the looming disaster. Ahead of the storm, Louisiana residents in low-lying areas tied up boats, stocked up on supplies, prepared sandbags and got out Thursday.

“Anytime there is a disturbance it always disturbs me,” Ken Smith said.

But some chose to stay behind. “Help people that need help, ride it out, party it up,” one man said.

Begnaud reported that Grand Isle, one of the parishes ordered to evacuate, has five permanent drainage pumps and they’ve brought in six temporary pumps to help with the expected deluge.

FEMA personnel were already on the ground in Louisiana and 3,000 National Guard members were also called in to help.