Nothing like they’ve ever seen before. That’s what many residents and
officials are saying about the massive rainfall and widespread flooding
accross south Louisiana. In East Baton Rouge Parish, Central Mayor Jr.
Shelton says one of the biggest problems is that the issues related to
these storms are every changing…:
CUT 4 (08) “we can”
Forecasters are urging residents to watch for rising streams, creeks
ditches and other low lying areas.

There was a resurgence of heavy rainfall early Saturday morning for parts
of south Louisiana that were already flooded, leading to more problems.
The bottom of the state is seeing flash flood watches and warnings, and
Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard says this is a life threatening
situation. Governor John Bel Edwards has declared a state of emergency. He is slated to speak at this hour and give an update on this dire situation.

As the waters continue to rise in south Louisiana, residents are also
losing power. Entery reported this morning that nearly 10,000 customers are
in the dark. On its website, Entergy states that crews are working to
restore power in the affected parishes, including low-lying areas and areas
impacted by high water. However, the company said crews cannot reach some
areas to work on restoring power.

State Superintendent of Education John White is proposing a plan to
lawmakers that would allow the voucher students that were placed on a
waiting list, to go ahead and enroll in the nonpublic school. He says the
schools would agree to accept a small payment of $100 from the state per
child for the year…:
cut 15 (11) “public schools”
He says they will know by August 22nd whether or not the private schools
who participate in the voucher program will agree to this plan, but he
expects most will. He says it’s the right thing to do.