St. Tammany Parish President Kevin Davis told officials on Friday if Hurricane Gustav stayed on the current track and made landfall west of the parish sometime Monday night or early Tuesday morning, St. Tammany would still likely feel tropical force winds.

He said winds could be felt as early as Monday morning, and the parish could receive between 6-12 inches of rain during the event.

Also, Davis said, the storm surge along coastal regions is expected to be about 13 feet, and he cautioned residents not to attempt to drive after windy conditions begin. No plans of evacuation were made Friday, but officials were continuing to watch weather reports and monitor the storm’s path. For up to date information, visit the parish’s Web site at www.stpgov.org or call the parish’s Storm Information Line, 809-2300. Recorded information is available regarding sandbags, shelters, evacuation orders and other pertinent information.

If necessary, shelters will open in the parish Sunday with a special needs shelter opening at Covington High School. No pre-registration for the special needs shelter is needed, however anyone seeking to evacuate there must meet the medical requirements, bring a caregiver and all medical equipment needed, including a bed. Parish spokeswoman Suzanne Parsons-Stymiest said this shelter is meant for residents who have special needs and cannot evacuate due to health issues. They should monitor the news, radio and parish Web site for special needs shelter opening announcement.

The state plans to begin contraflow early Sunday morning and will use a dual contraflow plan for the state for the first time. This will affect the interstates through St. Tammany Parish.

Both Covington Mayor Candace Watkins and Mandeville Mayor Eddie Price said there cities are as ready as possible. Price said sandbagging was done, and city workers are picking up tree debris and items that could become hazards.

Louis Fitzmorris, mayor of Abita Springs, said preparations have already been made there.

Slidell officials have also been busy preparing for the storm. They urged citizens to follow instructions given by Davis.

Because of the storm, many agencies decided to remain closed Tuesday. They include the St. Tammany Parish School System (most private and parochial schools follow the school system’s lead), Slidell City Court and the 22nd Judicial District Court.

Also, Covington’s Historic District meeting has been cancelled; the St. Tammany Parish Zoning Commission and Board of Adjustment meetings scheduled for Sept. 2 has been cancelled; and the West St. Tammany Chamber of Commerce luncheon featuring Sen. David Vitter schedule for Sept. 3 has been cancelled.