Hurricane Rita Debris Cleanup – June 3, 2006

In early June, WFO Lake Charles began issuing HAZMAT Spot Forecasts to support cleanup efforts in Cameron Parish.  Storm surge from Hurricane Rita had destroyed coastal communities and subsequently washed debris into the Sabine Wildlife Refuge.  The U.S. Coast Guard asked the WFO to provide meteorological support for their daily operational planning. The Coast Guard explained that cleanup crews were working in vast open areas that provided no cover from approaching thunderstorm activity. Therefore, their concern centered around thunderstorm activity and development.  An estimated 60 spot forecasts were issued through July 30^th in support of this clean-up effort.

Figure 3. Eastern Holly Beach

  Figure 4. Western Holly Beach

Monica Allison of the USCG praised WFO Lake Charles on their efforts during the cleanup.

 “The recent reports that I have receiving from NOAA in Lake Charles have been outstanding…Your continued support of our operation, while it may seem trivial, is vital to our success and the health and safety of the crew working out of Gibbstown. In short, it is greatly appreciated.”