(Jackson, MS) – This past weekend, the Jackson metro area saw historic flooding from the Pearl River. According to the National Weather Service, the Jackson metro area is under a FLASH FLOOD WATCH through late tonight. Now, local officials are saying the threat isn’t over just yet.
John Sigman, the General Manager for the Ross Barnett Reservoir says the good news is the lake is going down. “Overnight, the lake level has dropped. People can expect to see the water move away from their homes and businesses. The lake is now down below 297 feet,” said Sigman. He made the announcement at the Hinds County EOC press conference updating the public on the Pearl River water levels today.
Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba is warning citizens to please adhere to warnings that are still in place. “I would like to advise constituents in the affected areas that this is still a dangerous circumstance. Stay out of floodwaters, it is unsafe. Wildlife has been washed out of their natural habitat giving way to snakes and other animals being in the water. It is critical that you do not return to your homes until the clear has been given,” stated Mayor Lumumba at the press conference.
When you are able to return to your homes, please see the guidelines from FEMA for DEBRIS REMOVAL. (see below)
How Can You Help?
The American Red Cross is asking for donations and volunteers.
Donate:
- redcross.org/donate and select Disaster Relief
- Call 1-800-REDCROSS
- Text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation
Volunteer: The local Red Cross will need help maintaining and setting up shelter facilities, registering shelter residents, serving meals and more. The public is invited to attend the upcoming training opportunities at the Southwest Mississippi Chapter facility located at 9 River Bend Place, Suite 100, Flowood, MS 39232
Friday, February 21
- 9:00 am Shelter Fundamentals
- 1:00 pm Disaster Services Overview
Saturday, February 22
- 9:00 am Disaster Services Overview
- 1:00 pm Shelter Fundamentals
The American Red Cross Mississippi Region has tips on staying safe during a flood disaster. CLICK HERE