By Dawn Burleigh

The Orange Leader

 

As residents watch the river and anticipate possible flooding as Sabine River Authority (SRA) has 11 gate open to four feet this will cause moderate flooding to occur in Orange County. Areas east of State Hwy 87 and North of Interstate 10 should make preparations.

As water continues to flow into the river Basin, Orange County Emergency Management will continue to coordinate with SRA and update the public with potential river levels and high water.  Future gate adjustments are possible.

This rain event has also caused some flooding on the Neches River, currently the level is at 5.91 feet in minor flood stage and is predicted to continue to rise into major flood stage peaking around 8.4 feet on Tuesday. People living in the low-lying areas should make preparations.

Neighbors to the east of Orange, in Louisiana, are also monitoring the situation.

“Although there has been no official word of possible flooding in the Starks and Vinton area, the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office is monitoring the situation closely,” says Sheriff Tony Mancuso.  “We are urging all residents to be vigilant and keep an eye on the situation in case you need to evacuate your home.  We have our high water vehicles and other equipment in place and ready to deploy if needed.”

Meanwhile, the rains have caused damage at the W.H. Stark House as a leak was discovered Thursday.

“A leak developed in the 3rd floor air handler of the W.H. Stark House. Water seeped through the 2nd floor ceiling and continued to the basement. Once discovered, staff worked feverishly to remove contents from the affected rooms and began mitigating the damage. We expect the restoration process, out of necessity for a historic home, will be long. Staff are contacting restoration and conservation specialists to get the best advice we can. Protecting the W.H. Stark House and its contents is our top priority. Consequently the W.H. Stark House will be closed indefinitely as assessments are made. The Stark Foundation will share updates as restoration plans are developed,” according to a W.H. Stark House Facebook post.

Generally 2-7” of rain has fallen across the region over the past week according to the National Weather Service in Lake Charles.

Orange County has Sand Bag Locations at: (Bring your own shovel)

Precinct 1 Road and Bridge Barn – 10375 N Hwy 87 Orange 77632

Precinct 3 Road and Bridge Barn – 2505 W Roundbunch (FM 1442) Bridge City 77611

Precinct 4 Road and Bridge Barn  – 345 Claiborne St Vidor 77662