Hurricane Laura, one of the strongest storms to ever hit the United States coast, roared into Winn Parish Thursday. Maximum sustained winds in Winn Parish reached 78 MPH uprooting trees, knocking out power and damaging a cell tower.

Many residents are currently without power and cell service. Entergy and SWEPCO have stated that it could be anywhere from four days to two weeks to have all power restored to Winn Parish.

The Winn Parish Police Jury Road Crew began working on clearing trees from roads as soon as the storm passed yesterday. Road Superintendent Perry Holmes stated that he had never seen so many roads in Winn Parish blocked by trees. According to Winn Parish Police Jury President Josh McAllister two National Guard Units were in Winn Parish assisting with clearing roads from downed trees. “I’ve had zero cell service since yesterday, all messages came through last night at one time. I’m not ignoring anyone, I’ll returning calls and messages as fast I can,” stated McAllister early this morning.

Many public offices will be closed today. Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office has water and non-perishable food available.

Citizens could be seen removing trees from roads shortly after the most intense wind passed yesterday.

There have been no deaths reported in Winn Parish but it is clear that property damage is extensive.