The city of Picayune is now in a state of emergency, city leaders announced today, caused by a severe weather event. Thursday, according to a proclamation, Mississippi Governor Phil Bryant declared a state of emergency. The proclamation will allow areas affected by flooding to receive government assistance.
Picayune Fire Chief Keith Brown said the floodwaters are rising. This includes the Pearl River and the West and East Hobolochitto Creek.
“The numbers right now are about six inches shy of what we got in Hurricane Isaac, which was 24.6” he said. “That’s what they’re saying it’s going to crest at. We’ve talked to the weather service and they’re saying they may lower that number by three inches at 9 p.m. But still, we feel like some people are going to get some flooding.”
After the meeting, Brown and his firefighters were heading to West Chester, the East side of town and the area off of North Main Street to notify home owners that they may need to get out, to be safe.
The community safe room in Picayune will open at 5 p.m., Brown said. It is located at 501 Laurel St. No pets are allowed inside the shelter building, he added.
“If your home flooded in Isaac, it’s best to make plans to leave,” Brown said.