Flood Awareness Week urges Mississippi residents to identify flood risk

During Flood Awareness Week, a Facebook post urged Mississippi residents to identify local flood risks as parts of the state continue to experience flooding from the remnants of Tropical Storm Arthur, and additional impacts remain possible, the post said.

The post reminded residents that flooding does not only occur near rivers or the coast but can happen anywhere heavy rainfall overwhelms drainage systems, creeks and roadways. It advised people to know which roads in their communities are prone to flooding, to monitor forecasts and local emergency information, and to delay travel if conditions are unsafe.

The post also warned against driving around barricades or through flooded roadways and noted that small decisions can have large consequences. It said 6 inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet and 1 foot of water can carry away most vehicles.

Flood Awareness Week is intended to highlight risks and encourage preparedness ahead of heavy rain and tropical systems. We will provide more information as it becomes available.