Gov. Haley Barbour today urged residents along the Mississippi River to prepare for major flooding over the next two weeks. The river is expected to rise three feet higher than it did during the 2008 flood.
The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency expects the river to reach its flood stage this weekend. The water will continue to rise over the next two weeks.
“This is one disaster we can prepare for ahead of time,” Gov. Barbour said. “Anyone living or owning property in the affected area needs to take this situation seriously and move any property to higher ground.”
Residents and business owners in low-lying areas near the river should take precautions to protect their property. Mississippians need to review their flood insurance policies with their insurance agent and know what is covered. This weekend, individuals should check their property and move important items to safer locations.
The following chart prepared by the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency illustrates estimated flood stages and dates:
