The devastation in Lake Charles and surrounding areas is beyond belief. Buildings reduced to rubble, trees scattered, downed light poles, and hundreds of thousands are still without power. In fact, according to some reports, it could be weeks before power is fully restored. As of Sunday, there were 368,000 people without electricity and 172 towers damaged or destroyed.
Residents in the disaster area can register now for disaster assistance from FEMA by visiting disasterassistance.gov or calling 1-800-621-FEMA or by applying through the FEMA app. The disaster area includes Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis and Vernon Parish. More parishes are expected to become eligible.
Louisiana residents who want to help with the relief effort are encouraged to volunteer. You can either sign up to help an organization or donate money. Visit volunteerlouisiana.gov. The website will allow users to view current disasters in Louisiana and see where volunteers are most needed.
Source: Louisiana Radio Network: Laura Recovery, LRN: Residents Looking to Volunteer