Though perhaps 30 to 40 credit unions in Louisiana's southern half remained closed Thursday with power still out and employees unable to get to work, credit unions outside of the saturated Hurricane Isaac rain and flood zone reported a semblance of routine operations but slow traffic.

“I think we had maybe one or two members come in this morning since most are staying at home until the rain lets up.” said Ronald Dowling, regional vice president for the $425 million La Capitol FCU of Baton Rouge.

Dowling, who oversees Monroe/Ruston branches, said only four of La Capitol's 16 branches in north Louisiana reopened Thursday while those in metro Baton Rouge remained shuttered for the third day.

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So far there have been no reports of major damage or injury among employees but electricity remains out in vast portions of the state as Hurricane Isaac heavily drenched New Orleans and the southern quadrant.

“The lights went off yesterday at 2 p.m. and they're still out this morning,” said Connie Major, executive vice president of the Louisiana Credit Union League whose home is in Baton Rouge.

League offices in Harahan were also without power earlier Thursday. A few credit unions planned to have drive-ins open Thursday, she said, noting that her league like others on the Gulf Coast impacted by Isaac are posting individual credit union status reports on websites.

In an updated report late Wednesday, CUNA Mutual Group said it has no reported losses but “this is not uncommon since Isaac is still over southern Louisiana and most of the area has been under evacuation orders if there are damages.”

”“We have adjusters ready to make site inspections in the New Orleans area once authorities allow us to do so,” said a spokesman.

“We continue to track Isaac as it moves into upper Louisiana, Arkansas and Missouri, and we will be contacting credit unions in these areas as needed. Our message to credit unions remains the same: We'd like to hear from them concerning any problems they are encountering, regardless how small, and about problems other credit unions in their area may be having.'

Credit unions can call the CMG's toll-free emergency number (800.637.2676), which is answered live.

Instant Insights /

Hurricane Isaac: Many Louisiana CUs Remain Closed Thursday

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