LAPLACE – Severe flooding in LaPlace from Hurricane Isaac has forced the evacuation of some homes in the River Forest Subdivision in LaPlace.

St. John Parish Sheriff Mike Tregre said emergency responders received calls from residents asking for assistance in getting out of their homes. Tidal surge from the lake has pushed water into neighborhoods and has forced the closure of several roads in the parish.

Tregre said Highway 51 and Interstate 10 in LaPlace was “completely impassible” and motorists had to be rescued from their vehicles.

The parish is reporting high water at the rear of River Forest, the rear of Main Street, Farm Road, new Highway 51 at Main Street, Belle Terre Boulevard, Woodland Drive at Highway 51, Homewood, Robichaux Drive, the intersection of Spring Meadow and Woodland, Indigo Lakes and Spring Meadows. There were also reports of three feet of water at Belle Grove.

The parish reports that water is rising on Highway 51 from Brand Scaffolding toward the interstate. Peavine and Frenier roads have been closed due to high water.

Winds and rain were still heavy on Wednesday as Hurricane Isaac slowly moves through the region. Tropical storm force winds are expected to continue until about 10 p.m. on Wednesday, according to parish officials, who said the slow forward-moving speed of 8 miles per hour is raising concerns about rising water levels and extended power outages.

More than 19,000 residents are without power, according to parish officials and those who are out could be out for an extended period.

A curfew that began at 6 p.m. Tuesday night was still in effect on Wednesday.