RESIDENTS NEED TO BE AWARE OF FLASH FLOODING POTENTIAL TODAY
Pearl, MS – The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency is asking residents to be weather aware this afternoon and this evening. An approaching storm system will move through bringing the possibility of flash flooding and damaging winds.
National Weather Service forecasters say that a low pressure system will move through the western Gulf, bringing up to four to seven inches or rain, minor coastal flooding of low lying areas, higher than normal tides and small craft advisories. A flash flood watch is in effect for most of south and southwestern Mississippi until 1 p.m. on Monday.
"While most Mississippians welcome the rain, we need to remember the possibility of flash flooding associated with the storms that are moving through Mississippi,” said MEMA Executive Director Robert Latham. “As we say every time there is a threat of flash flooding, remember: ‘Turn Around, Don’t Drown’."
MEMA and the NWS also recommend you take the following steps:
Have a family emergency plan in case a weather warning is issued.
Plan a flood evacuation route with your family.
Never drive through flood waters. Roads could be damaged below the water, and flood waters could wash cars off the road.
Check and restock your emergency supply kit in case you are without electricity for an extended period of time.
If you come in contact with floodwater, wash your hands with soap and disinfected water. Floodwater may carry raw sewage, chemical waste and other infectious substances.
Avoid walking through floodwater. As little as six inches can knock you off your feet.
For more details on family and personal preparedness, visit MEMA’s website at www.msema.org. The best way to get up-to-date information is to “Like” MEMA on Facebook, or “Follow” us on Twitter.
