LAPLACE — As a result of a strong air mass moving across the region bringing excess moisture, the National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for St. John the Baptist Parish and surrounding Parishes until 7 p.m. Tuesday.

Rainfall accumulations of five to seven inches are possible over a 24- to 36-hour period.

Impacts include possible extensive street flooding, and in low lying areas and rises on rivers and streams. With already saturated grounds, it will not take much rainfall to quickly runoff and lead to ponding in roadways.

Residents are encouraged to use breaks in the rainfall by clearing catch basins and drainage systems in the neighborhoods.

Public Works and Utilities crews will be on hand in the event issues arise and will be out working throughout the Parish. Residents are asked to call the 9-1-1 Emergency Center to report any issues or concerns during the weather event and NEVER drive down flooded roadways.

The St. John the Baptist Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness is in contact with the National Weather Service to receive the latest weather updates and forecasts. Please stay tuned to weather stations for weather updates and changes in the forecast.

Please also sign up to receive emergency notifications to your home phone, cell phone, email or SMS text messaging device by visiting sjbparish.com and clicking “Stay Connected.”