Video: Local County First-Responders Prep For Heavy Rains

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HOUSTON, Miss. (WCBI) – Flooding is often a problem on low lying streets and with the threat of severe weather, Chickasaw County first responders are busy preparing for possible heavy rains.

“We put all our deputies on notice, make sure their cars are full of gas. We’re prepared at anytime if something does happen,” said Sheriff-Elect James Meyers.

Sheriff Meyers says roads that are near creeks also pose a threat when rain comes.

Those high-risk roads are monitored first.

“All of our roads are in good shape but some of them, the drainage, trees will fall and block a drain or anything can happen from week to week. And we may not be aware of it that it’s blocking a drain until the rain does come, then when the water backs up, you know you have a problem. But we do have several areas that are suspectible to flooding,” added Sheriff Meyers.

EMA Director, Linda Griffin, has been monitoring the latest forecast.

“Once it starts raining in Chickasaw County, they advise it could last 8-10 hours I believe is the last forecast,” said Griffin.

Griffin says its best to stay off the roads when heavy rains come but she has some valuable advice for residents.

“If you do have to walk through moving water, slide your feet, don’t walk in a normal stance, but sliding your feet will help keep your balance. If you have to go across running water, but otherwise stay away from it. Make sure your kids don’t play in creeks or ditches because you don’t realize how deep they are,” added Griffin.

Stick with WCBI Weather for the latest updates throughout the evening and Wednesday morning.