Major flooding predicted along Sabine River

LOGANSPORT, La. -- Major flooding is a concern along the Sabine River in and around Logansport in the coming days.  Emergency response agencies met Thursday morning in DeSoto Parish to prepare their response.  “Having emergency vehicles in the area just in case the need arises. Of course, we have a hydro-truck which is an amphibious vehicle. A couple of drones with heat capabilities," said DeSoto Parish sheriff's PIO Mark Pierce.   The Logansport gauge on the Sabine River is forecasted to rise to 34.3 feet Friday, which would be the highest it has been since 2016 (when it crested at 35 feet.)  There is at least some low potential for the river to crest a foot or two higher than this, and of course a higher crest has potential to cause even larger issues, Pierce said. Currently, the river is expected to crest on Monday around 35.7 feet. Residents in low areas near the river such as Caraway Isle and Garrett's Park in Logansport have already either evacuated, or are in the process of leaving now.   "My wife and everybody gathered up and have been packing stuff up and low camp off the Johnson,” said Jeff Rogers, a Garrett's Park resident.  "Our office, along with EMS, Fire, 911, is fully prepared to assist anyone needing assistance prior to the crest stage, and rescue, if needed, at any stage.  We are sparing no resource or tool available to ensure the safety of everyone affected by this flooding," Pierce said. The DeSoto Parish Police Jury has also announced that sandbags are available and can be picked up at the DeSoto Parish Police Jury road barn in Grand Cane (behind the airport), Logansport Fire Station and Stonewall Fire Station.