Residents encouraged to prepare for extended rainfall

Published 3:25 pm Tuesday, March 8, 2016

LAPLACE — The National Weather Service is predicting extended periods of gusty rain and thunderstorms to develop beginning Wednesday as a series of upper level disturbances move through the region.

Forecasters are predicting four to six inches of rainfall are possible for the area through Saturday, with locally higher amounts possible. The main threats will be heavy rainfall, damaging winds and strong thunderstorms.

A Coastal Flood Advisory is also in effect for St. John the Baptist Parish due to above normal tides.

Extensive rainfall coupled with high tides on the Lakes can result in flash flooding and street flooding. The Public Works Department and Utilities are making preparations for possible severe weather by checking all pump stations, lift stations and pumping down drainage canals.

Public Works and Utilities Crews will be on hand in the event any issues occur.

Parish officials as St. John residents to secure garbage cans and yard debris as best as they can and pick up tree branches to avoid entering the drainage system during the weather event.

Residents should call 9-1-1 to report drainage, sewage or flooding problems immediately. Residents are also asked to use caution when venturing outdoors or operating vehicles in heavy rainfall and refrain from driving through ponding water.

Sign up for the Parish emergency alerts by visiting the homepage of sjbparish.com and clicking on “Stay Connected.”