CNN photog Mark Biello was a heroic reporter & rescuer during Katrina. Now he’s covering this new Louisiana flood https://t.co/hi7uQKM75F
— Brian Stelter (@brianstelter) August 14, 2016
This CNN video from Sunday shows dramatic footage of Louisiana’s flooding, which has been ongoing for days with Governor John Bel Edwards declaring a state of emergency. The widespread damage extends to the waterlogged LSU campus, and even Edwards and his family have evacuated their Baton Rouge mansion after rising waters overtook the lower level. Edwards added that homes across the state are equally affected with precautionary power disconnects occurring “in order to keep people safe” as rescues continue. One harrowing video showed a woman and her dog being rescued from their car. Even scarier — poisonous snakes are weaving through these waters.
The flooding shows no signs of abating. Not only have an untold number of people been forced from their homes, but about 1,000 vehicles are stranded on Interstate 12 near Albany with people stuck inside them. Rescue vehicles are currently unable to reach these vehicles, and boats are also useless, since the waters aren’t quite widespread enough to allow an uninterrupted route.
The Advocate reports that nearly 20,000 people (and hundreds of pets) have been rescued from the floodwaters. Nearly 37,000 homes are without power, and four parishes were declared a major disaster. The situation is an utter mess with 10,000 people currently in shelters, which leaves quite a gap for the remaining thousands who have been displaced. Edwards has requested and received federal emergency funding for the recovery operations, but many individuals need more immediate assistance.
One person in need, Jamie Tindle, has a particularly affecting story. Her daughter, Ashli Stockton, set up a GoFundMe site for Tindle, who has likely lost her home after evacuating on August 13. Tindle was rescued with her wheelchair-bound son, who requires special care. Stockton reveals how Tindle has helped many people as Executive Director of a non-profit, and now she could use some help.
Hey guys please help my friends out in their time of need. Even a share helps.. Thank you all. https://t.co/2GsXhqBH49
— Louis (@LouisVecchio) August 14, 2016
The Red Cross has also provided information on how people can donate to Louisiana flood victims. Those who wish to lend a hand can also text “LAFLOODS” to 90999, which will result in a $10 donation.
(Via The Advocate, NOLA.com & Red Cross)