Hurricane Isaac: A Dozen Credit Unions Sustain Minor Damage in Louisiana

Twelve credit unions in the southern region of Louisiana – New Orleans to Lake Charles –sustained minor damages, and at least one or two may still have been closed on Tuesday because of power outages caused by Hurricane Isaac.

“The major issue we’re having in the area is power outages,” said Lacy Hyer, vice president of communications and public relations for the Louisiana Credit Union League. The league’s office in Harahan lost power Aug. 29. Power was restored to the league’s office Monday night.

Hyer said credit unions reported roof damages to their buildings and downed trees.

“I believe there were one or two (credit union) branches that have not opened yet due to power outages,” said Hyer. “But for the most part, they (credit unions) are all getting back and running. We are following up with them today to make sure they have everything they need.”

The Associated Press reported more than 40,000 homes and businesses remained without power on Tuesday afternoon. Most of the power outages were in two parishes hardest hit by floods, Plaquemines and St. John the Baptist parishes. The hurricane knocked out power to more than 900,000 utility customers across the state.

Although the flood water has been receding, Hyer said there were reports of high water levels, closing off some roadways throughout the New Orleans and Lake Charles areas.

However, Hyer doesn’t believe any credit union offices are in the areas where high water levels persist.