Mandatory Evacuation As Flooding Approaches

Officials in St. Martin Parish have issued a mandatory evacuation order for Butte La Rose, Happytown and Sherburne in the Atchafalaya Basin. Spokesperson Major Ginny Higgins says severe flooding is expected from the Atchafalaya River starting this morning. Once the river crests, it's expected to remain at record levels for several days. Higgins says they are expecting between 5 and 20 feet of water in portions of St Martin Parish. The St. Martin Parish evacuation site will be Breaux Bridge High School gym, which will open this Saturday at 8am. Displaced residents will need proof of residency, a seven day supply of non perishable foods, medication, water, hygiene products and baby food. They'll also need blankets, medical documents and toys, books, and games for displaced children.