Federal emergency declared in EBR as Isaac heads north

President Barack Obama has declared federal emergencies in areas of Louisiana and Mississippi hit hard by Isaac, in a move that should speed federal aid and recovery efforts to the hurricane-battered Gulf Coast. Obama signed the orders late Wednesday covering 35 parishes in Louisiana—including East Baton Rouge and surrounding parishes—and 34 counties in Mississippi. Gov. Bobby Jindal had requested the emergency declaration. The White House says in a statement that the disaster declarations ordered authorities to expedite federal aid in areas affected by Isaac. The move makes federal funding available to state and local governments and certain nonprofit organizations for emergency work. Rainfall totals in some parts of the state are expected to be close to two feet before Isaac exits northward. The Coast Guard plans to begin assessing conditions on the Mississippi River today to determine when the river can reopen to shipping. The National Weather Service says Isaac should be a tropical depression by the time it reaches Shreveport later today. You can check out the latest National Weather Service update on Isaac here. Daily Report is continually updating a list of Isaac-related cancellations and closures, as well as providing emergency contact information. See the complete rundown here; and send any updates/additions to be considered for inclusion by email to editors@businessreport.com.