Local

Drew Brees sends message to New Orleans from Atlanta as city deals with Ida

New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) passes under pressure from Atlanta Falcons defensive end Adrian Clayborn (99) in the first half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)

ATLANTA — After Hurricane Ida made landfall Sunday as a major Category 4 storm, people across the country are sending their thoughts and prayers to Louisiana.

That includes former New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees, who was in Atlanta on Sunday night.

[Ida live updates: Hurricane weakens to tropical storm]

The Falcons and Saints have been bitter rivals, but the team set aside the football rivalry and posted a video message from Brees. The Saints legend offered these words of encouragement.

“Hey everybody back in New Orleans and Louisiana. This is Drew Brees. I’m here in Atlanta with the Sunday Night Football crew, but my heart is with you. Please everyone stay safe and secure during the hurricane. God bless everyone and stay safe.”

Brees was in Atlanta to call the Falcons-Browns preseason game as part of his new job with Sunday Night Football. During the broadcast, Brees recalled the spirit that New Orleans has shown in times of adversity.

[PHOTOS: Hurricane Ida makes landfall in Louisiana as a Category 4 storm]

“I know this: New Orleans have been through so much. I know how resilient our city is. Obviously this is significant,” Brees said. “I know New Orleans will bounce back, but this will be tough for a while.”

Ida was downgraded to a tropical storm Monday morning but continues to bring a dangerous storm surge, damaging winds and flash flooding to parts of southeastern Louisiana and southern Mississippi.

Millions in Louisiana and thousands in Mississippi are currently without power. At least one person has been confirmed dead.

[SIGN UP: WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter]