March 11, 2016 – Due to the recent heavy rains north of our region, widespread flooding is expected in areas of Calcasieu Parish near the Sabine River. Especially prone to major flooding are areas that lie east of the Sabine River to Highway 109.

Water levels are currently rising at a very rapid rate along the Sabine River, and flooding is expected to occur in the lower Sabine area as early as late Friday night or Saturday morning, and is expected to remain at dangerous levels for several days. Residents of this area that may be familiar with the significant flooding event of 1989 in this area can expect flooding levels to exceed those of 1989 by several feet.

Due to the above anticipated conditions, the Calcasieu Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is issuing a recommended evacuation for all residents in the Parish who live west of Highway 109. Dick Gremillion, Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness states that “entry and exit routes to these areas will be limited due to safety concerns, so immediate action is urged to avoid any danger to life or property. Public services and emergency services may also be limited during this flooding event.”

Please make adequate preparations and reach out to families, friends, neighbors and others in the area that may not have received this important information.

We encourage residents to monitor any developments and call 911 to report any emergency situations that may arise.