Mayor of Jackson, Mississippi urges locals to “get out now” after the state was destroyed with record rainfall and the Pearl River rose to devastating levels.
“If you are able of receiving out now, get out now,” Chokwe Mayor Antar Lumumba said. in a news conference on Saturday morning.
He said it possible for from 100 to 150 homes be affected in floods from the Pearl River and warned local residents head for higher land or go to city shelters.
“Get out as soon as possible to prevent any incidents or challenge with people trying to leave area all at once or some care over whether the river will rise to its crest earlier than you expect, or our forecast,” he said. added.
Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves announced state of special saturday in expectation of overflow of the Pearl River. It was up to 35.5 feet is predicted on Monday morning7 feet taller flood stage, National Weather Service office in Jackson said.
By 9 a.m. Monday weather The service reported that the river was forecast to “before remain stable” at a height of about 35.37 feet, just under major flood stage level of 36 feet, then fall slowly towards evening.
The State has deployed 126,000 sandbags and search and rescue teams are on on standby to respond to local emergencies manager Requests. Drones also in in air estimate the water level in the Pearl River.
Mississippi fights with flash floods from 22 August. There are currently 42 homes, nine businesses, five farms and 43 public Roads are reported to be damaged, the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency said. in its initial assessment.
Some areas got 14 inches of rain in 72 hour time period as the state saw record precipitation, the agency said. one person in Wilkinson County was hit due to severe weather but flooding event far from over.
Rain moving via Jackson area is possible Monday, which will further affect already- saturated soil.
City officials warned of Pearl River flooded Friday, saying Ross R. Barnett Reservoir had to release water to relieve pressure on dam. 33,000 acre lake provides water for Jackson.
Barnett Reservoir inflow peaked Sunday at 298.63 feet above mean sea level. The Pearl River Valley Water Supply District claimed to be discharging water from the lake at a rate of 60,000 cubic feet per day. second for minimum 24 hours to reduce water levels. Then on On Monday, the county said it had reduced emissions to 45,000 cubic feet per day. second and will reduce flow in coming days.
“Inhabitants in low-lying areas should remain be vigilant and be prepared. This high water event predicted last From 7 to 10 days,” the water supply department said.
Some schools will switch to virtual Monday and Tuesday training due to “continued low water pressure” and threat of pearl river flood, Jackson Public Schools said.
severe weather two years after Mississippi experienced unprecedented flooding in February 2020 affecting hundreds of homes.
Erin McGarry contributed.
