Hey Louisiana, it’s time to get ready. The Mississippi River is expected to crest at 50 feet by February 27, and the National Weather Service has issued a Flood Warning. While this might not be the biggest flood we’ve ever seen, the rising waters are serious enough to put areas along the river at risk. If you live near the Mississippi River, or in any low-lying areas, now’s the time to start preparing.
Why You Should Care
The Mississippi River is expected to rise to 50 feet, which means it will spill over its banks, causing some flooding in nearby areas. While it’s not predicted to be a catastrophic flood, even moderate flooding can cause major disruptions—roads could be blocked, homes and businesses near the river could get impacted, and some areas might be left without access for a while.
This situation could get worse if there’s more rain over the next few days, so it’s crucial to stay informed and be ready in case things escalate.
What You Should Do Now
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Stay Informed: Keep checking local news, weather apps, or the National Weather Service for updates. Conditions can change quickly, and knowing what’s going on will help you react fast if the situation worsens. Whether it’s new flood levels, road closures, or evacuation notices, you’ll want to be aware and ready to act.
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Avoid Flood-Prone Roads: If you live near the river or in flood-prone areas, avoid traveling near flooded roads. Even just a small amount of water can make roads dangerous. If you come across water on the road, turn around—it’s safer than taking the risk. Floodwaters are unpredictable, and it’s easy to underestimate their power.
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Move Valuables to Higher Ground: If you live near the Mississippi River or in an area prone to flooding, now’s the time to move any valuables, electronics, and important documents upstairs or to higher ground. Flooding can happen fast, and being proactive now could save you from a lot of stress later.
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Prepare Your Home: If you have a sump pump, make sure it’s working properly, and check your gutters to make sure they’re clear. If you live in a flood zone, it’s a good idea to place sandbags around doors and windows. Don’t forget to move outdoor furniture, trash cans, or anything else that could be swept away by rising waters. The more prepared you are, the less you’ll have to worry if the water starts rising.
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Plan for Possible Evacuation: Even if things aren’t looking too bad yet, it’s always good to have a plan. Know the fastest routes to higher ground and make sure your car has enough gas in case you need to leave quickly. Have an emergency kit with food, water, medications, and important documents packed and ready just in case.
What’s Coming Next?
The Mississippi River will crest at 50 feet by February 27, and while things will eventually start to calm down afterward, flooding could linger for several days. Roads could be affected, and it may take some time for everything to fully dry out. Keep an eye on updates as the situation develops and stay prepared for some possible disruptions.
The Mississippi River is rising, and while this may not be a huge disaster, it’s serious enough that we need to stay alert. Take steps now to protect your home and valuables, stay informed, and have a plan in place in case things get worse. Staying ahead of the situation will help you get through this safely.
