VIDEO: Rain, Rain, and More Rain

WEBSTER COUNTY, Miss. (WCBI) – For several days, Chief Meteorologist Keith Gibson and the rest of the WCBI weather team have been talking about the potential for these storms.

This means emergency managers also have to prepare.

Heavy rains have an impact on roads and flash flooding can be deadly.

We went to Webster County on Monday, to find out how crews are keeping a close eye on any rising water.

Rain, rain, and more rain.

Webster County EMA Director Barry Rushing says six to eight inches have already fallen in the western part of the county.

It’s washed out a culvert and flooded a few roads like this one, off Tom Nolen Road.

“Be aware of all of the rain and the water around and local flooding and if you run up on a flood zone across the road, turn around and don’t drown. That’s the best advice for anybody, just try not to cross it,” says Rushing.

A steady downpour can turn low spots into driving hazards.

“It can happen really fast. It doesn’t take it but a few minutes to get up to your house, your vehicle, or whatever, especially if you live in a flood zone.”

As more rain is predicted to fall, more preparations and risks come into play.

“It’s a risk to respond to any kind of situation, but you kind of have to be on the lookout for everything. Once you get there, you size up the scene and see what it looks like and see how everything is going and make sure there’s no other dangers around and keep yourself safe.”

Rushing also says to back away when you see a barricade.

“The barricade will be there for a reason. My advice is not to drive through it, or try to go around it, or move it. It’s there for the drivers safety.”

Rushing also says talking to other county officials to make sure everyone is prepared for flooding is one of the first steps in keeping everyone alert and safe.