A state health official says there will be an increase threat of West Nile in the flooded areas of the state. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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 Even though it’s a hectic week in south Louisiana, LSU is expected to start school on Monday as usual and accommodate local students affected by the flood. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Many people lost important documents and photographs in the recent flood. Halen Doughty has more from the State Archives Office on how to salvage them…

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Halen Doughty”

______________________________________

The massive flooding in south Louisiana now poses an increased risk for West Nile. That’s according to the State Medical Director for the Center of Community Preparedness, Dr. Frank Welch, who says in the short-term, flooding washes away mosquitoes and their larvae, but floods leave standing water, which allows mosquitoes to breed and the population to grow quickly…

cut 4  (10)  “those systems”

 Welch says they are going to be very vigilant and focus on mosquito control over the next few weeks. He says some of the hardest hit areas were Livingston and Ascension Parishes, which have seen plenty of cases of West Nile in years past….

Cut 5  (09)  “after flooding”

 Welch says mosquitoes that carry the Zika virus are not as prevalent in the flooded areas of the state, but the threat should not be ignored.

Cut 6 (10) “New Orleans area”

_______________________________________________

The water is leaving Livingston Parish for the most part, but what the flood left behind is catastrophic. Parish-wide, officials say at least 75% of homes were impacted with 2 to 8 feet of water, but that figure could easily grow as this is still very much an ongoing situation. Denham Springs Mayor Gerard Landry says people are coming from all over the US to help:

CUT 7 (09)  “and do so”

There were between 15,000-20,000 rescues made during this event. Landry says more than 90% of homes in the Denham Springs were flooded. He says most businesses also took on water at unimaginable levels…:

Cut 8 (13) “under water” 

There have been reports of minor looting of alcohol and cigarettes in the area, but Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard says just because the jail took on water, it doesn’t mean he won’t put you in it. Livingston Parish Public schools are all closed until further notice, and Landry says he believes every school in the city took on water…:

Cut 9 (12)  “it’s bad”

___________________________________________________________

Residents in Jefferson Davis parish are simultaneously recovering from a historic flood and preparing for more water to come. Chief Deputy Chris Ivey with the Jefferson Davis Sheriff’s Office says the water is receding in many areas of the parish, and people are moving back into their neighborhoods as they can.

Cut 10 (09) “over them”

Unfortunately, more rain is heading towards southwest Louisiana. Ivey says they aren’t expecting many more areas to flood, but they are gearing up for possible search and rescues to come.

cut 11 (08) “still there”

Conditions are looking a little better farther east down the I-10 corridor. Lafayette OEP Director Craig Stansbury says over 5-thousand homes were damaged in the flood, and many people are still in shelters.

cut 12 (06) “or not”

Stansbury says the parish is starting to enter the recovery phase. He says they will be assisting FEMA with setting up a location and whatever else the residents need going forward.

Cut 13 (06) “debris removal”

___________________________________________________________

The State Archives Office is offering advice for salvaging documents or photographs that were damaged in the flood. Archivist Doug Harrison specializes in preservation. He says the best thing people can do is separate the documents into the smallest possible stacks so they can dry.

cut 14 (08)  “a bit”

Harrison says if you cannot separate the documents enough to air dry, or of you don’t have anywhere to dry them, you can wrap them in wax paper and put them in the freezer.

Cut 15 (06) “calmer”

Harrison says pictures need to be air dried as soon as possible. He says if you cannot separate the pictures, you can freeze them too, but the chances of them surviving are far lower than regular documents.

Cut 16  (10)  “salvage those”

State officials are developing a plan for housing the thousands of flood victims who still cannot return to their homes. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (29) “I’m Halen Doughty”

================

Celtic Movie Studios in Baton Rouge has transformed into a shelter for flood victims. has more…

CUT 2 (32)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Department of Children and Family Services is advising flood victims to pre-register for disaster food stamps. If you experienced loss or damage from the floods, you can apply online on the D-C-F-S website or call 1-888-LA-HELP-U. DCFS Deputy Assistant Secretary Sammy Guillory says pre-qualifying makes it easier for enrollees to receive emergency food stamps, once D-SNAP application sites open…

CUT 3 (07)  “the process”

Guillory says applicants must provide their social security numbers, address, and income. He says this is a one month assistance program for people who do not receive regular SNAP benefits. He says anyone who was affected by the flood can apply.

CUT 4 (11)  “of employment”

Guillory says DSNAP benefits will be available once the state gets approval from the federal government. He says they hope to have registration sites open next week, but that’s not set in stone. He says DCFS has a lot on its plate right now.

CUT 5 (07)  “been flooded”

==================================================

As the flood water rose, many people were fleeing to shelter. Celtic Media Studios in Baton Rouge opened their doors to thousands of people who were forced out of their homes after the devastating storm. Director of Studio Operations Patrick Mulhearn says the lull in the film industry actually turned out to be a blessing…

CUT 6 (11) “do this”

Mulhearn says Saturday night the population of Celtic was zero and Sunday afternoon the population was about 4-thousand people. He says when the bus loads of victims started coming in, there were no volunteers so he turned to Facebook to ask for assistance because the phone lines were down.

CUT 7 (09) “everything else”

Mulhearn says there has been talk about Baton Rouge being divided but he’s never seen a more united community than over the weekend. He says people from all different professions have shown up to help and boost morale, from face painters for the kids to snoball stands.

CUT 8 (10) “gathering dust” 

==================================================

Thousands of flood victims are still in shelters, and many more are staying with family and friends. Governor John Bel Edwards says his office and other agencies are developing a strategy for housing these people in the immediate and distant future. He says it’s too early to know exactly what that plan will look like.

CUT 9 (08) “the same”

Edwards says there’s a lot of information that needs to be gathered from those that have been affected. But he says FEMA knows how to do this, so the state is following their lead.

cut 10 (10)  “a plan”

FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate says they aren’t sure yet if the plan will include bringing in FEMA trailers or not. But he says if it comes to that, these are not the small travel trailers we saw after Katrina.

Cut 11 (07) “approved”

===================================================

The flooding is not over yet as officials in St. James Parish are preparing for backwater flooding. Parish President Timmy Roussel says the levels of water in the Blind River are higher than what was seen during Hurricane Isaac. He says residents are scrambling to sandbag their homes before the water reaches it.

cut 12 (09) “fire station”

There are numerous sandbagging locations on both the east and west banks. Roussel says the community has really teamed up and when one home is completely sandbagged, they all move on to the next. He does expect some homes to take on water and multiple homes already have….

Cut 13 (10)  “as possible”

======================================

While flood waters are receding in some parishes, the Lake Arthur area in Jefferson Davis parish is still expecting more flooding this weekend and into next week. Johnathan Brazzell with the National Weather Service in Lake Charles says the Mermentau River is expected to crest at 11.5 feet by Friday, which would be the third highest crest the river has ever seen.

cut 14 (08)  “for miles”

Brazzell says this will lead to more homes flooding and road closures in that area. He says the flooding concerns are far from over in some southwestern parishes, particularly around Lake Arthur.

cut 15 (09) “two weeks”

Brazzell says unfortunately there is still more rain in the forecast. He says there’s a possibility some flash flood warnings as the day goes on.

cut 16 (09) “of time”

Flood warnings are still in effect for Calcasieu, Jefferson Davis, Acadia, and, Vermilion parishes until further notice.

=====================================

Over 40-thousand homes were damaged by the floods, and unfortunately, many of them are not insured for flood damage. Jeff Palermo has more…

CUT 1 (26) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

______________________________________

While tens of thousands of people have lost everything in the deadly flood, many are coming together to assist in recovery efforts throughout south Louisiana. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

______________________________________

The Attorney General’s Office is warning flood victims to watch out for scammers when it comes time to fix up their damaged homes. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

About 75-percent of Louisianans do not have flood insurance, which is bad news for the thousands of homeowners who lost everything in the flood. Michael Barry with the Insurance Information Institute says FEMA assistance will be available for flood victims who live in a parish that are part of the federal disaster declaration, but it will may not be enough to cover the cost to rebuild.

cut 4  (11)  “current location”

Barry says the typical FEMA direct assistance payments are around $10-thousand, depending on the disaster. But he still recommends that people without insurance register their damage with FEMA. He says they can do that online at disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA.

Cut 5  (10)  “home repairs”

Barry says there is good news for motorists whose cars were damaged in the flood, if they have comprehensive coverage.

Cut 6 (07) “flood waters”

_______________________________________________

Curfews are in place in East Baton Rouge, Livingston and Ascension until conditions improve in those parishes. State Police Col. Mike Edmonson says the curfews are in place to keep everyone safe. He says law enforcement has also started going door-to-door in flooded areas looking for storm victims.

CUT 7 (08)  “be done”

The curfews are also in place to prevent looting. East Baton Rouge Sheriff Sid Gautreaux says four people were arrested in Baton Rouge for breaking into a flooded Dollar General, and at least 10 others have also been arrested in the parish for looting. He says there are entire neighborhoods that are flooded, and police need to monitor those areas for looters.

Cut 8 (08) “property” 

Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard says many of his deputies lost everything in the flood. He says it’s important for people to remember their struggles as first responders continue to work to help residents.

Cut 9 (08)  “else is”

___________________________________________________________

In the wake of the deadly floods in south Louisiana, many residents are coming together to lend one another a helping hand. Volunteer Louisiana Executive Director, Judd Jeansonne, says if anyone wants to volunteer, the best thing they can do is be patient because too many volunteers at once creates a so-called disaster after the disaster. He says many areas are still in the emergency response phase doing search and rescues.

Cut 10 (08) “those communities”

Jeansonne says people who want to help, can register at VolunteerLouisiana.gov because more volunteers will be needed, when we move into the recovery phase. He says the jobs will vary from one organization to another.

cut 11 (12) “clean up”

Jeansonne says about 1,000 people have registered to volunteer through their website. But he says many more people have helped in other ways.

cut 12 (09) “to neighbor”

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The Attorney General’s Office is working to make sure flood victims are protected from price gougers and scammers. A-G Jeff Landry says there have been cases in other states, where fraud artists have shown up and identified themselves as FEMA inspectors…

Cut 13 (10) “not change”

Landry says they’ve opened up their consumer protection hotline so people can report scams by calling (800) 351-4889. And he says they’ve teamed up with the online donation website, GoFundMe, to make sure contributions are really going to flood victims.

cut 14 (10)  “with them”

Landry advises storm victims to make sure all contractors for home repairs are licensed in Louisiana. He says there is a list on the state licensing board’s website.

Cut 15 (10) “in writing”

As many people enter their flood damaged homes, there are some important things to remember when starting the rebuilding process. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

================

The total number of parishes on the federal disaster declaration is now 12, as 8 more parishes have been added. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

===============================================

About 75-percent of Livingston parish is reportedly a total loss. That’s according Sheriff Jason Ard who also says five-thousand people are in local shelters, but there have not been any fatalities. Parish President Layton Ricks says there are over 25 shelters set up throughout the parish.

CUT 3 (10)  “our shelters”

The sheriff’s office reports up to 20-thousand people were rescued in this historic flood, and they advise people not to try to return to their homes yet. Ricks says they are still conducting search and rescues, and anyone who needs help can call 686-3996.

CUT 4 (09)  “the shelters”

Sheriff’s deputies have arrested a few people on looting charges, and they are reportedly working to keep looters away from homes and businesses. Ricks says this is the worst flooding Livingston parish has ever seen. But he is hopeful that the community will pull together.

CUT 5 (07)  “through it”

==================================================

Many flood victims are returning to their homes and finding devastating damage. LSU AgCenter Housing Specialist Claudette Reichel says when you enter your flooded home, make sure the power is turned off, as well as, the gas. She says the next step is to look for structural instability.

CUT 6 (10) “structural damage”

Reichel says residents should make a personal shopping trip before going home to buy protective gear and cleaning supplies. She says all wet carpet and cushioning must be removed and everything inside that had contact with the flood water should be cleaned and disinfected.

CUT 7 (12) “of water”

Reichel says it only takes two to three days of wetness for mold colonies to begin, so the quicker the homeowner can get in to start the cleanup process, the better. She says it’s important to address saturated insulation because even when dry, it can cause mold problems and wood rot.

CUT 8 (11) “drying process” 

==================================================

Eight more parishes have been added to the federal disaster declaration, bringing the total number to 12. The eight parishes added are Acadia, Ascension, East Feliciana, Iberia, Lafayette, Pointe Coupee, St. Landry, and Vermilion. Governor John Bel Edwards encourages people who have been affected to apply for federal assistance. He says people can register online at disasterassistance.gov.

CUT 9 (09) “do that”

Edwards says anyone who sustained flood damage should register with FEMA, whether or not their parish was included in the disaster declaration, because more parishes will likely be added to the list.    He says over 8-thousand people are in shelters throughout the state, and that number is expected to grow.

cut 10 (09)  “like to”

The number of storm-related fatalities has risen to 9. Edwards says 40-thousand homes have been impacted, and over 30-thousand people have been rescued. He says search and rescues are still ongoing in some parishes.

Cut 11 (09) “required”

===================================================

Acadia Parish is among the 12 parishes declared a federal disaster area after the devastating floods plagued southern Louisiana. Director of the Acadia Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Lee Hebert says right now they have extensive flooding and they are not in the clear yet…

cut 12 (08) “the parish” 2x

Hebert says because they are a very rural community, Acadia only has one open shelter but many flood victims are staying with family and friends. He says they’re praying the waters go down because so many residents have lost everything.

Cut 13 (10)  “bit more”

======================================

A tenth life has been claimed by the flood waters that have ravaged south Louisiana. Five of the deaths have occurred in East Baton Rouge Parish. EBR Coroner Dr. Beau Clark says the latest victim is William Borne, who is the founder and former CEO of Amedisys. Clark says Borne was found at around 11 a.m. today…

cut 14 (09)  “his home”

Clark says he hopes the death toll doesn’t grow anymore but whenever there is a situation like this, there is always a chance of more accidental drownings.

cut 15 (11) “storm”

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Many south Louisiana residents have been displaced following a historic flood. Halen Doughty spoke with one family in a Baton Rouge shelter…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

______________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards and other state officials are touring the state assessing the damage from Louisiana’s second historic flood of 2016. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

______________________________________

The United Way of Southeast Louisiana is accepting donations and volunteers to help displaced flood victims. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Department of Health is warning people about the risks of wading through flood waters that could possibly be contaminated. Spokesperson Bob Johanessen says sewage, dangerous contaminants and other debris could cause health problems…

cut 4  (08)  “electrical wires”

Johanessen says also be aware of venomous snakes or other dangerous animals that could be in the water that flowed out of its banks…

Cut 5  (07)  “very quickly”

Johanessen says be mindful that the septic system at many homes could be flooded. He also warns people to check to see if your parish is under a water boil advisory.

Cut 6 (07) “bacteria”

_______________________________________________

Thousands of Louisianans have been displaced from their homes by the recent flooding. John Hamilton is from Bosnia but has lived in the US for 16 years. He says he’s never seen anything like this in all the years he’s been here. He says he is thankful for the shelter that he’s called home since the flooding began.

CUT 7 (07)  “thank you”

Stella Williams says she and her three children had to flee their home when the trailer park they live in started to flood. She says there was knee-deep water when they tried to escape.

Cut 8 (11) “can walk” 

Williams says she spent three hours trying to find shelter once she and her family got out of her flooded home. She says she is still not sure how much damage her home sustained. Going forward, Williams, like so many other people, doesn’t know where to go from here.

Cut 9 (10)  “be okay”

___________________________________________________________

Governor John Bel Edwards spent time in Acadiana on Monday as he continues to assess the damage from the second historic flood Louisiana has seen this year. He says they don’t know the total cost of all the damage, but he does expect it to be in the millions.

Cut 10 (11) “going forward”

Edwards says there have been five confirmed deaths because of the flooding. He says unfortunately, he expects that number to rise.

cut 11 (11) “recovered you”

Edwards says he is touring the affected areas of the state with his cabinet members, as well as the FEMA liaison to the White House. He says seeing the damage first hand could help more parishes be declared federal disaster areas. He says they are trying to transition from the response phase to the recovery phase.

cut 12 (08) “the people”

___________________________________________________________

Many Louisiana residents without flood damage are eager to volunteer their time to shelters or donate items. Michael Williamson, president and CEO with the United Way of Southeast Louisiana, says you can help by making a financial contribution to purchase resources. He says visit united-way-S-E-L-A-dot-org-slash-flood (unitedwaysela.org/flood) to donate.

Cut 13 (08) “needed”

Williamson says flood victims who are in need of assistance should dial 211 from a landline or cell phone to get information on what services are available. He anticipates many people from Louisiana and other states to give whatever they can to those in need.

cut 14 (11)  “their homes”

_________________________________________________________

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon is optimistic those with flood insurance, who sustained damage from this recent round of flooding will see financial relief soon. Donelon says insurance companies moved quickly last March, when Louisiana saw extensive flooding…

Cut 15 (12) “in payments”

Donelon says those without flood insurance can receive federal aid, if the parish they live in has been declared a federal disaster area. So far, only four parishes have been designated, but Donelon says more will be added to the list that already includes East Baton Rouge, Livingston, Tangipaphoa and St. Helena…

Cut 16  (11)  “as well”

The Amite River has receded in some parts of Livingston Parish, giving storm victims a chance to survey the devastation of their homes. Michelle Southern reports from her Denham Springs subdivision.

CUT 1 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern”

================

The water keeps rising in certain areas of south Louisiana. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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St. John’s United Methodist Church in Baton Rouge is just one of many impromptu shelters that have been set up across south Louisiana in the wake of historic floods. Rev. Dr. Jay Hogwood says nearly 100 people are being housed on the church campus, and that number is expected to grow.

CUT 3 (07)  “on that first”

Hogwood says their facility does not have a shower, so they are only able to house people for short term stays. He says they have partnered with sister churches in their sheltering efforts, including South Baton Rouge Presbyterian Church.

CUT 4 (07)  “back and forth”

Hogwood says St. John’s takes up donations for their Shepherd’s Market, which is usually used to feed the needy in the community. He says as of late, it’s been a vital resource to provide meals for people who, for now, are calling St. John’s home.

CUT 5 (07)  “the devastation”

Hogwood says they are still taking donations of non-perishable food items, baby supplies, and paper products at St. John’s UMC on Highland Road.

==================================================

Acadiana is also experiencing flooding problems. Donald Jones with the National Weather Service says Lafayette, New Iberia and the Lake Arthur areas are trouble spots. He says the Vermillion and the Mermentau Rivers are at peak crest right now and homes continue to flood.

CUT 6 (09) “to go”

Jones says more rain is expected this week, which could worsen the situation in some areas.

CUT 7 (11) “new flooding”

Frank Revitte with the National Weather Service in Slidell says the southeast section of the state are still seeing flood waters rising. He says a lot of water still has to move from the Amite River Basin towards Lake Maurepas.

CUT 8 (12) “spread out” 

Revitte says Ascension, Iberville, St. James and Livingston are still expected to get additional flooding and more homes could become flooded. He says even though the water crested in Denham Springs and Livingston Parish, the water isn’t expected to clear out for days…

CUT 9 (10) “process”

==================================================

Four parishes have been declared a federal disaster area as a result of the historic flooding. The four parishes are Tangipahoa, St. Helena, East Baton Rouge and Livingston. The declaration allows for storm victims to receive federal assistance. Gerard Stoler with FEMA says they plan to set up recovery centers in these parishes to help individuals get federal aid.

cut 10 (05)  “right now”

Individuals can also register damage online or over the phone at disasterassistance-dot-gov (disasterassistance.gov) or at 1 (800) 621-3362. Stoler says all damage claims in parishes not declared a federal disaster zone will be processed when those parishes are added to the list.

Cut 11 (05) “register”

As of this morning, Richard Carbo with the Governor’s Office says 11,000 have registered damage, 8,000 of those are from impacted parishes.  Governor John Bel Edwards says they’re hoping to add more parishes to the list.

cut 12 (06) “declaration”

===================================================

Flood waters are not showing signs of receding anytime soon in some southern Louisiana parishes. Meredith Conger with the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness in Ascension Parish says they are still trying to combat the flooding throughout the parish. She says they are still in the response phase.

Cut 13 (09)  “at Lamar Dixon”

Conger says anyone who wants to volunteer can call 225-621-8360 to find out how they can help. She says they have seen an outpouring of support from the community.

cut 14 (09)  “who have”

==================================================

State Police Trooper Bryan Lee says I-10 is closed from Siegen Lane in Baton Rouge to LA 30 near Gonzales. He says they do not have a timeline for when the interstate could be opened up to traffic.

cut 15 (12) “surface streets”

Lee says the water is receding on I-12 and the eastbound lanes are now open from Juban Road all the way to the Mississippi State line . He says everyone who was stranded on I-12 when the flood waters unexpectedly hit, have been rescued.

cut 16 (12) “of the road”

###Soundbites and copy should be up to date now.####

Today marks the beginning of what forecasters call the heart of hurricane season. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

______________________________________

After heavy rains and flooding in much of southern Louisiana, many people will have to file claims on their flood insurance policies. Don Molino has more on what to do when making a claim…

Cut 2 (25) “I’m Don Molino”

______________________________________

South Louisiana is grappling with one of the most catastrophic flood events in the state’s history, and the situation is ongoing. Michelle Southern reports from her flooded Denham Springs neighborhood.

Cut 3 (38) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

Today we enter what forecasters say is the heart of hurricane season. State climatologist Barry Keim says this period runs from about mid-August until early October. He says this period is when most of the worst hurricanes have hit Louisiana.

cut 4  (10)  “week period”

Keim says Louisiana has had three years of relatively slow hurricane seasons. He says that could mean we are due for another major storm.

Cut 5  (08)  “we’ll see”

Keim says conditions over the Gulf are right to produce some strong storms. He says that’s why the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration upped their forecast for this year’s hurricane season.

Cut 6 (10) “major hurricanes”

_______________________________________________

South Louisiana is grappling with one of the most catastrophic flood events in the state’s history, and the situation is ongoing. The Bayou State has dealt with a few significant weather events this year, but this one is shattering records beyond measure. Governor John Bel Edwards says, because residents did not anticipate their homes flooding..the search and rescue operations have been inundated..

CUT4 7 (10)  “to get in”

Edwards says more than 20,000 people have been rescued and hundreds of pets. The governor says this event is as unprecedented as it comes…:

Cut 8 (18) “evacuate” 

Many have said that one of the greatest challenges of this situation, is how unpredictable the weather and the water has been. Edwards says volunteers and first responders have been working around the clock to make these rescues, and many others are stepping up as well…:

Cut 9 (16)  “remain patient”

The great flood of 2016 wiped out places that had never seen water before. Interstate 12 is closed between Baton Rouge and Hammond. State Police Col Mike Edmonson says officers were with people who got stranded on the interstate, but many refused to leave their cars. He says troopers tried to reach people to bring them food and water, but it’s been a major challenge…:

Cut 10 (26) “we’re dealing with”

As of Sunday night, six people had reportedly been confirmed dead from being washed away by the raging waters and strong current. GOHSEP Director Col. James Waskom says this rescue effort is not limited to Baton Rouge, Livingston, St. Helena and Tangipahoa…:

cut 11 (15) “impacted”

Louisiana National Guard Major General Glenn Curtis says this has been a life and death operation. He says about 1700 guardsmen are mobilized in the affected area across south Louisiana…:

cut 12 (18) “is required”

___________________________________________________________

The massive flooding across south Louisiana, will force many people to file flood insurance claims. Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says the first thing people need to do is contact their agent. But he says there are other ways to prepare to make a claim.

Cut 13 (08) “repair cost”

Donelon says people should also do what they can to minimize the damage to their home.

cut 14 (07)  “to do so”

Donelon says if there are any costs associated with minimizing the damage to their homes, people need to save those receipts as well.

Cut 15 (06) “insurance policies”

________________________________________________________

Ongoing rain and storms in south Louisiana have caused widespread flooding unlike some officials say they’ve ever seen before. Emelie Gunn reports…:

CUT 1 (36) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

================

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, Marijuana will remain a Schedule I drug under federal law, which has many people asking what will happen in the 25 states that legalized medical marijuana. Don Molino has more…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Don Molino”

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Several police and fire stations are offering sandbags to those residents being inundated by rain today. Schools, offices and businesses in many south Louisiana Parishes are closed today, and thousands are without power. In East Baton Rouge Parish, Central Mayor Jr. Shelton says they had over 10 inches of rain fall in 6 hours…:

CUT 3 (09)  “new territory now”

Weather experts say this is similar to a tropical storm rain-wise, but the wind factor is not there. 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. East Feliciana Parish OEP Deputy Director Jim Parker says he’s dealt with flooding before, but nothing like this…:

CUT 5 (10)  “people getting stranded”

More flooding is expected tonight and the flash flood watch remains in effect for almost the entire bottom half of the state through tomorrow evening. Parker says they are doing everything they can to help residents.:

CUT 6 (08) “fast”

State Emergency Officials from throughout the bottom half of the state are saying the amount of rain that’s fallen, in such a short period of time, is reaching historic proportions. Frank Reviette with the National Weather Service in Slidell, says southeast Louisiana got a ton of water in just a few hours…:

CUT 7 (08) “in some of that area”

Reviette says a main issue with this area of low pressure is that the bottom half is churning in the Gulf of Mexico which is adding fuel to the storm. He says they’ve been getting reports of street flooding and water in homes…:

CUT 8 (12) “close attention to that”

Reviette says, unfortunately, this system is churning very slowly, and the rain will continue into Saturday. Almost the entire bottom half of the state is under a flash flood watch through Saturday evening. He says there might be some slight progression to the northwest into the weekend…:

CUT 9 (08) “away from the region”

Governor John Bel Edwardsa has declared a state of emergency.

==================================================

The Drug Enforcement Administration announces marijuana will remain a Schedule I drug under federal law, which begs the question as to what will happen in Louisiana and the 24 other states that legalized medical marijuana. Parks Senator Fred Mills authored Louisiana’s medical marijuana legislation, and he says he’s not worried because they planned for this when they wrote the bill.

cut 10 (10)  “Schedule II”

Mills says this ruling should not affect Louisiana’s ability to dispense medical cannabis to the patients who need it. But he says he is still not pleased with the feds’ decision.

Cut 11 (08) “it right”

Mills says Louisiana is on track towards dispensing the drug to patients, and they should have the regulations in place by next year. He says there is no chance that any of the states with medical marijuana laws will face any repercussions from the federal government because of this ruling.

cut 12 (10) “in Louisiana”

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A 68-year-old man from Zachary drowned today while he was trying to escape floodwaters at his home, according to reports. Adam Einck with the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries says in just 6 hours agents have rescued over 100 people and pets, and the efforts are ongoing:

Cut 13 (10)  “as we speak right now”

Einck says there is a stalled out system sitting on top of us and it’s producing lots of rain in a short amount of time. He says it’s similar to what we saw in March and they are urging people who know they are prone to flooding to go ahead and leave to avoid the need for rescue…:

cut 14 (10)  “get out”

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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”

White said this would get all 362 students on that waiting list for vouchers to get into the private schools of their choice. There were 442 students originally on the waiting list, but recent new funds trimmed that by 80. White says the money the state would pay for these students’ vouchers is essentially the same if the child attended a public school…:

cut 16 (05) “financially”

White 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…:

cut 17 (07) “is signifigant”

Louisiana is the third worst state for underprivileged children, according to a new study from WalletHub. Don Molino has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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The American Cancer Society released a progress report on how states are shaping up when it comes to cancer fighting policies. Emelie Gunn has more on how Louisiana scored…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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An officer-involved shooting left one suspect critically injured in Plaquemine. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A new study from WalletHub finds that Louisiana is the third worst state for underprivileged children. Jill Gonzales with WalletHub says about 11% of Louisiana teens aged 16 to 19 are not in school or working, which can contribute to the crime rate. She says the state’s graduation rate is also much lower than other states.

cut 4  (08)  “75-percent”

The report found that Louisiana ranks 31^st for the number if maltreated children, 40^th for the child food-insecurity rate. Gonzales says the state came in 49^th for the number of children living in poverty.

Cut 5  (09)  “in the nation”

According to the report, Louisiana ranks 47^th for infant mortality rate. Gonzales says the state also came in 48^th for the number of children in single parent homes.

Cut 6 (08) “high number”

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The American Cancer Society released their annual report on each state is making progress on cancer fighting policies and Louisiana still has some work to do. ACS Director of Government Relations for Louisiana Lydia Kuykendal says while Louisiana could improve its cancer prevention laws, there are some areas where the state is excelling….

CUT 7 (10)  “into law”

Kuykendal says Louisiana is lacking when it comes to smoke-free indoor air laws, meaning there is still a lot of second hand smoke in bars and casinos. She says we’re also falling a little bit short when it comes to tobacco control.

Cut 8  (08)  “cigarettes”

Kuykendal says overall Louisiana seems to be in the middle when it comes to making progress in cancer fighting polices.

Cut 9 (11)  “in others”

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Louisiana ranks in the top ten lowest gas prices in the country, according to AAA. Spokesperson Don Redman says we are seeing a slight uptick in gas prices because of what AAA expects to be record high demand.

Cut 10 (09) “a gallon”

Redman says refineries have done a good job keeping up with the demand, which contributes to the lower prices. But he says we’ve also seen cheaper than average crude oil, and that also keeps prices down at the pump. He expects gas prices to stay below average into September and October.

cut 11 (08) “since 2004”

Redman says the demand usually goes down close to Labor Day, so prices could get even lower. He says AAA forecast a summer average of about $2.25, and we stayed well below that all summer, which is good news for drivers.

cut 12 (07) “immensely”

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A suspect is in critical condition following an officer-involved shooting in Iberville Parish. Sheriff Brett Stassi says deputies responded to a call involving a fight between a mother and her son in Plaquemine.

Cut 13 (07) “her car”

Stassi says the suspect apparently beat his mother around her head, and she was treated for those injuries. He says the suspect’s girlfriend was inside his residence with him when deputies arrived.

cut 14 (10)  “potential victim”

Stassi says the suspect approached the deputies, and when he got close to them, he pulled out a gun.

Cut 15 (10) “buttocks area”

Stassi says the suspect was critically wounded and transported to a hospital in Baton Rouge. He says none of the deputies were injured.

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LSU Coach Les Miles spoke about the widely circulated video by TMZ purporting to be running back Leonard Fournette and Garrett Brumfield “fighting” in the parking lot behind Football Ops. Miles characterized it as two college kids shadowboxing. He revealed a tidbit about his youth…:

Cut 16  (14)  “not so cool”

Miles said he addressed the team in regards to such horseplay..:

Cut 17 (19)  “game”

Medicaid expansion enrollment is far surpassing the goals set by the Louisiana Department of Health. Michelle Southern has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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NOAA has released an updated Atlantic hurricane season outlook, and the storm chance has risen. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Enrollment in the expanded Medicaid program is exceeding the goals set by the Louisiana Department of Health extremely fast. LDH Secretary Dr. Rebekah Gee says they hope to enroll 375-thousand people by next June. She says the state has reached 73% of its enrollment goal in less than 50 days, and well surpassed the goal they had set for this July as well.

CUT 3 (12)  “of today”

Gee says Louisiana ranks dead last in health outcomes in the country, which she says is no surprise since until recently one in four adults did not have health insurance. She says before expanding Medicaid these people did not have access to preventative healthcare, and she hopes Medicaid expansion leads to better health outcomes in Louisiana.

CUT 4 (11)  “their health”

Gee says people can still enroll at healthy.la.gov. She says improving health outcomes benefits the state in many ways because healthy people make for better workers and happier citizens.

CUT 5 (10)  “healthcare”

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The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has released an updated Atlantic hurricane outlook, predicting this season is still expected to be the strongest since 2012. NOAA’s Lead Season Hurricane Forecaster Dr. Gerry Bell says it will be stronger than what they first predicted in May. And there is a now a 70% chance that..:

CUT 6 (09) “major hurricanes”

The initial outlook called for 10-16 named storms, 4 to 8 hurricanes, and 1-4 major hurricanes. Bell says there are several different factors leading to a more active season than first predicted…

CUT 7 (11) “to develop”

Bell says there is a lot of activity ahead for this season. He says we’re entering peak hurricane season so it’s time to prepare.

CUT 8 (10) “year”

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The Department of Children and Family Services is launching an initiative to improve foster care by redefining the role of caregivers. DCFS Secretary Marketa Garner Walters says Louisiana has strong confidentiality laws, but we often misinterpret who we need to be confidential with. She says the Quality Parenting Initiative is about having everybody on the same page.

CUT 9 (09) “foster parents”

Walters says our children deserve the best that we can give them, and she says we don’t always do that when they’re in the child welfare system. She says she hopes this will allow foster kids to get the love and support they need.

cut 10 (11)  “own kids”

Walters says moving foster kids from one home to another can be traumatizing to that child. She hopes this QPI will help DCFS reduce the number of placement changes and keep more siblings together.

Cut 11 (10) “birth family”

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The Saints take on the New England Patriots tonight in their first preseason game. The Who Dat Nation is eager to see how the team is looking on both defense and offense. One fan says he’s somewhat confident in the team but wants to see how the guys are shaping up…

cut 12 (08) “the season”

The game kicks off at 6:30 central time in Gillette Stadium. Another member of the Who Dat Nation hopes the guys look in shape and are able to hustle when they get out on the field tonight.

Cut 13 (08)  “the field”

One fan in anxious to see how the rookies perform tonight. But he hopes to see a lot of effort from all the players tonight.

cut 14 (07)  “I mean”

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Crews responded to the scene of a fire and explosion at the Motiva (Mo-Tee-Va) Oil Refinery in St. James Parish this morning near the Sunshine Bridge. Flames could be seen for miles from the Convent facility. Jywanna Octave with the St. James Office of Emergency Preparedness says two fire departments responded…:

cut 15 (09) “at this time”

The refinery produces reformulated and conventional gasoline, primarily for the southeastern United States. It is not known yet what caused the fire, but forecasters say there was lightning in the area at the time, around 10:50am. Octave says it was a scary situation, but it appears all workers were able to safely evacuate…:

cut 16 (04) “accounted for”