Louisiana: Devastation from Flooding Continues; 13 People Dead

Veronica Neffinger | iBelieve Contributor | Updated: Aug 18, 2016

Louisiana: Devastation from Flooding Continues; 13 People Dead

The devastating flooding in Louisiana continues as more rain falls and more people need to be rescued. The death toll has now reached 13 people.

NBC News reports that more rain is forecasted for the state, causing residents' slight repreive from the rains to disappear before many could even begin to assess the damage.

Meteorologist Roger Erickson stated, "The problem is there is nowhere for the water to run off. In the last couple of days, we've had to reissue flash flood warnings in areas that had been showing improvement."

"It turns your heart upside down," Erickson continued. "You think it's over, and then it starts raining again."

Most of Louisiana has gotten at least a foot of rain since last Friday. Many areas have gotten even more than that, with some places reporting up to 30 inches.

There have been 13 flood-related casualties, as well as 8,400 people who have had to evacuate to shelters, 40,000 homes damaged, and 30,000 people who had to be rescued.

Pets were also affected by the floods. One animal shelter reported having 450 dogs, 109 cats, 333 horses, 139 cattle, 44 pigs, 123 goats, and 27 exotic animals.

Authorities say they are working hard to reunite people with their pets since many people refuse to evacuate their homes if their pets are not with them.

A number of relief organizations are sending help to the people of Louisiana. The Red Cross “is launching a massive relief operation, which we anticipate will cost at least $30 million,” according to Brad Kieserman, who helps run the Red Cross’ logistics and disaster services operations.

Samaritan’s Purse and The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association’s Rapid Response Team has also sent out help to Louisiana residents.

Residents are hopeful that the rains will subside this weekend. 

 

Publication date: August 18, 2016



Louisiana: Devastation from Flooding Continues; 13 People Dead