From a press release

Mayor Mitch Landrieu provided an update on Tropical Storm Nate and declared a state of emergency for New Orleans. The Mayor advised residents to shelter in place on Saturday and Sunday in preparation for Nate and has not issued a mandatory evacuation at this time.

Nate was upgraded to a tropical storm and has taken a significant westward shift, making probable landfall in Southeast Louisiana over the weekend. The chance for tropical storm-force winds has increased. Heavy wind is currently the primary concern for New Orleans through the weekend.

Residents are allowed to park on the neutral ground and sidewalks, as long as vehicles do not block intersections or streetcar tracks.

At this time, a Coastal Flood Advisory remains in effect for New Orleans until noon on Sunday, Oct. 8. Coastal flooding is expected as tides are up to two ft. above normal tide levels. Potential storm surge flooding is probable through Saturday and Sunday. There is also potential for minor flooding of low-lying roadways outside of the flood protection system, near the Lakefront and in Venetian Isles.

At this time, there is no mandatory evacuation order for New Orleans. However, Mayor Landrieu strongly encourages residents who live outside the City’s levee protection system or in low-lying areas, like Venetian Isles, Irish Bayou and the Lakefront, to move to higher ground. Residents who live inside the levee system should prepare to take shelter with essential supplies including food, water, and medications.

As always during Hurricane Season, residents are reminded to make a plan and to have at least three days’ worth of supplies, including water, food, and medications on hand. To see tips on how to make a plan, visit https://ready.nola.gov/plan/hurricane/#prepare.