Hey Louisiana! If you live near the Calcasieu or Sabine Rivers, you need to stay on alert. The National Weather Service has extended the flood warnings, and both rivers are still running high. They’re expected to stay above flood stage until Tuesday, so flooding is still a concern. It may not be a major flood, but it’s enough to cause disruptions, especially if you live close to the water. Here’s everything you need to do to stay safe over the next few days.
Why This Flood Warning is Important
The Calcasieu and Sabine Rivers have been rising steadily, and the water is expected to remain high for the next several days. While we’re not looking at anything catastrophic, localized flooding is a real risk. Roads near the rivers could be flooded, and low-lying areas might see water creeping into homes and businesses. Even if the flood isn’t massive, it’s still a concern. And, with more rain on the way, it could get worse.
What You Need to Do Right Now
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Stay Informed: Flood conditions can change fast, so keep an eye on the latest updates. Watch local news, check weather apps, and listen to any alerts from the National Weather Service. If things get worse, you’ll want to know about road closures, rising water levels, or any evacuation orders that might be issued. The more you know, the quicker you can act.
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Avoid Flooded Areas: If you’re near the rivers, don’t risk traveling near flooded roads. Even just a little bit of water can make roads dangerous. If you see water covering the road, turn around and find another way. It’s easy to think it’s safe to cross, but floodwaters can be deceptive. It’s always safer to find a detour than to risk getting stuck or swept away.
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Move Valuables to Higher Ground: If you live near the river or in an area that’s prone to flooding, take some time now to move your valuables to a safer place. Things like electronics, important papers, and sentimental items should be moved upstairs or to higher ground. It might seem like the water won’t rise right away, but flooding can happen quickly, and moving your belongings now is an easy way to avoid a lot of heartache later.
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Prepare Your Home: Check your sump pump (if you have one) and make sure it’s working properly. Clear out your gutters so water can drain away from your home. If you’re worried about flooding, consider putting sandbags around doors and windows to keep water out. You should also move outdoor items, like furniture, trash bins, or anything else that could be swept away by the rising water.
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Have an Evacuation Plan: Even if things aren’t too bad yet, it’s always a good idea to have a plan in case things get worse. Know the quickest routes to higher ground and keep your car fueled up. Pack an emergency kit with food, water, medications, and important documents, so if you do need to leave, you can grab everything quickly and go.
What’s Coming Next?
The Calcasieu and Sabine Rivers will likely stay above flood stage until Tuesday, which means there could be several more days of flooding risk. While the water may not rise much higher, it’s still possible that the flooding could worsen in certain areas, especially if additional rain falls. Be prepared for possible disruptions, as roads could remain closed, and some places may stay flooded for a while.
The flood warning for the Calcasieu and Sabine Rivers is still in effect, and while this may not be a major flood, it’s serious enough that you need to take action. Stay informed, move your valuables, and take steps to protect your home. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so take a few minutes now to make sure you’re prepared for whatever happens next.
