Critical Risk Louisiana  ·  Hurricane / Storm Surge

St. Bernard Parish LA

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & DISASTER RISK PROFILE  ·  LAST UPDATED: Mar 2026

9/ 10
Threat Score
Population
47
Area
465
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Hurricane / Storm Surge
FEMA Disasters
12
federally declared

St. Bernard Parish was virtually destroyed by Hurricane Katrina in 2005 when storm surge of up to 20 feet inundated almost the entire parish killing hundreds of residents. Over 67000 people were displaced and 85% of structures were destroyed or severely damaged. The parish rebuilt but remains one of the most hurricane-vulnerable communities in the United States. Hurricane Ida in 2021 caused additional significant damage. The parish sits below sea level with the Mississippi River and Lake Borgne on its borders.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Evacuation routes inland should be identified in advance.
  • Store at least 72 hours of food and water.
  • Elevate critical belongings above flood level.
  • Have backup power ready in case of grid failure.

// Recommended Supplies

Essential gear for power outages, severe weather, and emergency situations in your area.

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 9 / 10    Critical Risk
Primary Hazard Hurricane / Storm Surge
Secondary Hazard Flooding
FEMA Flood Zone Critical
Federally Declared Disasters 12
Last Major Event Ida 2021
Event Frequency Annual

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (504) 278-4266
Emergency Shelters 4 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes LA-46 US-90 LA-39 LA-300

// County Profile

County St. Bernard Parish LA
State Louisiana (LA)
Population 47
Area 465 sq miles
FEMA Region Critical

// Other Louisiana Counties

// Nearby Infrastructure Risks

Critical infrastructure facilities within or near this area that could affect civilian safety during emergencies, conflict, or infrastructure failures.

🌊
New Orleans Hurricane Protection Levee System LA
Major Dam  ·  New Orleans, LA  ·  US Army Corps of Engineers  ·  10-mi risk zone
9/10 High

Infrastructure risk data is for emergency preparedness awareness. Facility locations are publicly known. Always follow official emergency guidance.