(February 20): The Salvation Army responded today in Copiah County as continued rain brought flash flooding. As there are still roads and neighborhoods closed by this weekend’s historic flooding of the Pearl River, there is nowhere for the rain to go. The Salvation Army trucks were out serving first repsonders and Mississippi Department of Transportation workers tasked with directing traffic through flooded roadways. Many residents expressed joy at seeing the trucks roll through. “We keep seeing coverage of the flooding in Jackson, but there are people out here still not able to get to their houses” said one resident. “It’s good to see The Salvation Army and know we’re not forgotten.”
Jackson, MS: The Salvation Army of Jackson, MS is continuing response to the historic flooding that occurred this weekend when the Pear River crested at 36.7 feet, the third highest level in recorded history. While flood waters are already receding in some areas, others remain submerged and are expected to remain so as rain continues to fall.
The Salvation Army is delivering coffee, snacks and hydration to first responders and community members affected by the flood. This bit of relief is a welcome respite for residents still waiting to know if their houses remain unscathed. Connie Joe Hontzas lives on a street that has not been cleared for reentry. While he can see the outside of his house, it will likely be a few days before he will be able to see the inside to determine if he has sustained any damage.
One resident, Deon Thompson, responded “We were thinking about coffee and how nice that would be, and there came The Salvation Army.” Thompson considers himself blessed as flood waters made it to his doorstep but did not enter his house. He remains concerned for his neighbors who weren’t as lucky especially with more rain predicted to fall this week. “I could see the relief in their eyes to know someone was here to help. I will always praise The Salvation Army.”
Jackson, MS (February 14, 2020)— Major flooding is expected to occur in Jackson this weekend as the Pearl River is expected to crest at a historically high level of 38 feet. According to the National Weather Service, this will be the 3rd highest crest after the Jackson floods of 1979 and 1983, respectively. Certain areas of Jackson have been placed under a mandatory evacuation due to the risk of severe flooding, and the city has made sandbags available for pickup.
The Salvation Army is actively monitoring the situation and preparing to serve if needed. Major Robert Lyle and Lieutenant Thomas Johnson of The Salvation Army Jackson, MS Corps attended today’s emergency management meeting, along with state and local emergency management officials, at the Hinds County Emergency Operations Center in downtown Jackson. The Salvation Army Jackson Corps’ emergency disaster services teams are on standby and ready to deploy if needed.
