GONZALES, La. (AP) - Ascension Parish President Tommy Martinez has declared a state of emergency due to heavy rains and continued flooding in the parish.
Parish spokesman Lester Kenyon says Martinez issued the declaration shortly before noon Friday.
The declaration allows the parish to access state resources such as sandbags and state prisoners to help fill them.
At least 29 homes, three schools and two businesses in the parish, south of Baton Rouge, flooded following Wednesday’s storms. Drainage Director Bill Roux has estimated total rainfall at 9 to 11 inches.
Rain is forecast through the weekend and into next week for much of the parish.
Martinez also says the parish’s Department of Public Works will pick up flood debris and white goods - no garbage - beginning Monday. To request removal services, call 225-450-1013.
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