Moderate Risk Louisiana  ·  Tornado / Flash Flooding

Rapides Parish LA

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

5/ 10
Threat Score
Population
129
Area
1,362
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Tornado / Flash Flooding
FEMA Disasters
7
federally declared

Rapides Parish anchored by Alexandria in central Louisiana serves as the regional hub for central Louisiana emergency coordination. The Red River creates flooding risk. Hurricane Laura in 2020 caused wind damage far inland including in Rapides Parish demonstrating how Category 4 hurricanes maintain damaging winds well beyond the coast. England Air Park formerly England Air Force Base serves as a logistics and aviation hub. The parish faces tornado risk and periodic flooding.

// 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 5 / 10    Moderate Risk
Primary Hazard Tornado / Flash Flooding
Secondary Hazard Hurricane
FEMA Flood Zone Moderate
Federally Declared Disasters 7
Last Major Event Laura 2020
Event Frequency Annual

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (318) 473-6700
Emergency Shelters 8 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes I-49 US-71 LA-1 LA-28

// County Profile

County Rapides Parish LA
State Louisiana (LA)
Population 129
Area 1,362 sq miles
FEMA Region Moderate

// Major Cities

Alexandria LA

// Cities in This County

// Other Louisiana Counties