Louisiana looms in a state of emergency as over 20 inches of rain continue to flood the area this weekend. At least three have died, while over 1,000 have been rescued, along with over 100 pets.
Louisiana governor John Bel Edwards declared a state of emergency that will stay in effect until Sept. 10. Edwards said in a press release Friday:
“This is a major disaster. This is an ongoing event and we are still in the response mode.
“We are in constant contact with local officials and first responders, and assistance is already on the move to affected parishes. The most important thing to remember is to obey road signs and to constantly monitor the news for updates to ensure everyone’s safety. Every available resource will be used to assist citizens as this situation continues to unfold.”
There are 18 parishes with emergency declarations on top of the one statewide, while three others are in the process of declaring themselves.
Edwards also deployed the Louisiana National Guard. There are around 1,200 soldiers on the ground assisting in search and rescue. 170 high water vehicles, 20 boats, and five helicopters have also been deployed.
According to CNN meteorologist Derek Van Dam, Baton Rouge has received twice the amount of rain in one 24-hour period than it normally receives in the entire month of August, which is about 5.82 inches.
Some areas have exceeded 20 inches in rainfall, with Livingston receiving 21.29 inches from late Thursday until early Saturday. The Tickfaw River rose to a record high 20 feet in 14 hours.
More To Come
The flooding will not stop here. Flash flood warnings remain in effect through the weekend with an additional five inches of rain possible.
Van Dam spoke more on this:
“The heaviest rain is behind us. I don’t see any break in the weather until early in the week next week. The rain will continue and ease by Tuesday.”
Louisiana is preparing to ask for federal help once it determines damage estimates.
There are about 16 shelters open. The Red Cross is on the scene, distributing food and water.
For those looking to find ways to help the efforts in Louisiana, take a look at these five ways to get involved.
Incredible Aerial Footage of floodwaters in Watson, LA along LA 16 area.
VIDEO CREDIT: RYAN RUSHING#laflood @WWLTV pic.twitter.com/R4phLznd2S— Dave Nussbaum WWL-TV (@Dave_Nussbaum) August 14, 2016
Featured image is a screen grab from the video.
