LAPLACE — St. John Parish President Natalie Robottom said communities north of Airline Highway, closer to Interstate 10 remain a concern in LaPlace, Reserve and Garyville for possible flooding.

However, during comments shared at approximately 3:40 p.m. Wednesday, she said Parish officials are not seeing any water level changes that have them “overly concerned.”

“Our Sheriff’s Office is working closely with us,” Robottom said. “They have done a flyover and they are not seeing anything significant. Our lake levels are low, which is a good thing because it allows the water that is coming to our area to go into both Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Maurepas.

“Again this (rain storm) is unprecedented. We have seen what has happened to our neighbors to the north and to the west of us and we’re trying to prevent that from happening to all of you.”

Robottom said the Parish’s flood protection program has been implemented, which secures the well system in Ruddock.

“We’re very concerned, but we are not overly anxious or panicked,” she said. “We want you to utilize your time now to make preparations. We do think we will work through this as we have done in the past.

“Unfortunately, we have experience with this in the past. We have a good handle on what’s happening. We know we can count on you and the rest of the neighbors around us to help us get through this.”

Parish leaders said they want area residents to make preparations for a move, if needed, including moving vehicles to high ground and taking care of important papers and medication.

“Should the need arise to leave, be prepared and know where you are going,” Robottom said. “We are staging for shelters.”