According to the National Weather Service, beginning Saturday evening and continuing through Sunday, heavy rainfall including a risk of severe weather is expected to impact the region including St. John Parish as a low pressure system travels east. Rainfall amounts of 2-4 inches with locally higher amounts are possible. Other threats include strong winds and isolated tornadoes.

Earlier in the week, St. John received over 7 inches of rainfall in 24 hours. With water levels in Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Maurepas 1-2 feet above normal, the drainage systems remain full and some streets remain with ponding of water. Drainage systems are showing signs of improvement during this dry weather. Extensive rainfall, water inundated drainage canals and existing high tides on the Lakes will quickly contribute to roadway and yard flooding in low-lying areas.

Public Works crews are utilizing breaks in the rainfall to clean catch basins and culverts, pick up tree limbs, analyze pump stations, and clear drains in preparation for the possibility of additional rainfall. Crews will be stationed throughout the Parish this weekend monitoring weather conditions and are prepared to respond if any issues arise. Sandbags will be available at 425 Captain Bourgeois on Friday and Saturday from 8 am to 8 pm. Please report weather related emergencies and sandbag requests after 8 pm to 911.

Residents are asked to clean yards from fallen leaves and tree branches to avoid entering the drainage system during the weather event. Also, please continue removing any debris from catch basins and storm drains at homes and businesses. Please avoid placing debris in ditches, drainage canals, and on the side of the road that may impede drainage or become projectiles. Residents should refrain from driving on flooded streets if possible and use caution on roadways.

The wastewater system is operating at normal capacity and wastewater conservation measures have been lifted. If necessary, the advisory will be re-issued. Rain chances are expected to diminish after Sunday.

St. John Parish officials are monitoring weather conditions and have been in contact with the National Weather Service and the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security to receive the latest weather forecasts. It imperative that residents monitor local weather stations for any weather updates.

Please also sign up to receive emergency notifications to your home phone, cell phone, email or SMS text messaging device by visiting the homepage of the Parish’s website at sjbparish.com and clicking on “Stay Connected.”