Authorities rescue residents from Addis flood

ADDIS, La. (Louisiana First) – Authorities reported rescuing 40 people from an Addis apartment complex. It was a sudden evacuation forced by the rising floodwaters.

Chief Jason Langlois with the Addis Police Department said, “It was a heck of a morning. A lot of rain was dumped in a short period of time. It was well over seven inches in some areas.”

Langlois said it appears a rainstorm stalled out over one particular area, causing heavy rains in a short period of time, outpacing the drains.

He said in all the years he can think of, he’s never seen this area flood quite this badly.

“We had some help with the assistance of the West Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office and the Brusly Police Department. We used high water rescue vehicles to help 40 residents from these apartments get to dry land,” Langlois mentioned.

He said residents in and around the D’Iberville Apartments on Chad Drive watched as the flood waters rose, and were able to grab a few items before they had to go.
               
“They did have six inches, roughly, of water that got into the lower floors of some of the apartments back here,” said Langlois. “It was a crazy morning. I hope the weather stays away and will give time for the water to recede. I feel bad for them. Weather is a crazy thing. You never know when flooding or anything will take place as far as weather goes.”

The chief said the water receded relatively quickly as the rains stopped, and the drains were able to catch up.

The water may be coming down, but there are several locations where West Baton Rouge Parish officials are giving out sandbags.

You will need to bring your own shovel.

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