After being hit by a tornado in Gretna, some locals are worried because more severe storms could strike again.
Gretna, Louisiana — An approaching storm can cause anxiety, especially if your home hasn’t been repaired for damage from past storms.
And in Gretna, where last month’s tornado landed, there are still homes torn open.
Located on Heritage Avenue, Terrytown Playground is now open to anyone in need of hurricane-grade heavy-duty cover. Jefferson District Superintendent Cynthia Leishen says it’s open because people are still living in dangerous mobile homes after Hurricane Ida and last month’s tornado, but there’s no food, water or bedding there. And remember, people are feeling uneasy because the final storm is just around the corner.
Oliver Young’s home was hit by Hurricanes Zeta, Ida, and a tornado in December.
“They’re going to demolish the house and I’ll have to start over,” Ms. Young, 56, said with a smile. “That’s all I can do.”
He doesn’t get any help from insurance.
“I live in a Holiday Inn hotel over there.” And who’s paying for it? “I, I!”
The approaching storm makes him a little nervous. He has been cutting hair since his O. Perry Walker high school days in 1988 and founded the barbershop Public Enemy Cuts.
If something comes along and breaks this I might lose my shop. So I have to make money. This is where you can continue to pay for your hotel bill until someone you know with insurance comes along. ”
“We know storm anxiety is real. This happens during hurricane season. I’m not used to dealing with it.
Dr. Moore says you can do three things:
1. Create a family safety plan before a crisis occurs.
2. Stay informed and have your TV or phone app registered with your local weather expert so you can be ready if anything happens.
3. Talk about anxiety.
“Don’t think you’re the only one who feels that way. Many other people feel this way,” said Dr. Moore.
Jefferson District Superintendent Lee Chen says he learned important lessons from people like Oliver who experienced December’s tornadoes.
“All they say is that they had to act very quickly. I didn’t know how quickly you had to act until I saw it,” Lee-Sheng said.
“I have lost a good deal, but other than that my body and my soul are here. So thank the Lord for that. Whatever I have lost, I will regain I think we can,” Young said.
All Jefferson Parish recreations are canceled tonight. Secure patio furniture, bring in ‘Yardi Gras’ decor and trash cans, and stay away from windows during high winds.
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