NEW ORLEANS (AP) – Heavy rain and street flooding in southeast Louisiana prompted the rescue of residents from their homes and the cancellation of classes in five school districts, authorities said Friday.
Tangipahoa Parish President Robby Miller said authorities rescued 72 people and seven pets stranded by high water. Shelters have been opened in the town of Amite and the city of Hammond to house those who were evacuated.
“They will be allowed to return home once the water starts to recede,” he said.
Miller said flooding closed at least 40 roads in the northern part of the parish. The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development said high water caused Interstate 55 to be closed near Amite.
St. James, Washington, Tangipahoa and St. Tammany parishes and the Bogalusa City School District announced early Friday schools would be closed due to weather and flooding concerns.