Flash Flood Watch issued; tropical system being monitored

Published 8:01 pm Thursday, June 2, 2016

LAPLACE – The National Weather Service is investigating a low pressure system in the Gulf of Mexico.

Although weather models show a 40 percent chance of a tropical system developing in the Gulf over the next 5-7 days, there is much uncertainty with the system, parish officials said.

According to the Weather Service, early indications show the system as more of a threat for the Florida Peninsula; however, the forecast can change at any time and residents should monitor weather stations closely.

The Office of Emergency Preparedness is in contact with the Weather Service and receiving updates regularly and all Department heads are meeting and making preparations. Residents should finalize game plans for homes and businesses in the event a storm threatens the area and visit sjbparish.com for more hurricane preparedness information.

In addition, the National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for Southeastern Louisiana including St. John Parish until 7 a.m. Saturday as a result of a strong disturbance traveling from Texas. Currently, persistent to moderate rainfall is possible through Sunday with amounts of 1-4 inches predicted. Heavy rainfall in short periods of time can result in street flooding in low-lying areas and ponding of water in roadways.

The Public Works and Utilities crews are making preparations to water and wastewater systems in preparation for possible heavy rainfall and all essential staff will be on call this weekend. Residents can assist with preparations by gathering loose debris and tree branches from yards and helping clean culverts and catch basins near homes and businesses

Residents can sign up to receive emergency notifications to a home phone, cell phone, email or SMS text messaging device by visiting sjbparish.com and clicking on “Stay Connected.”