Isaac leaves rescues and outages in its path - MSNewsNow.com - Jackson, MS

Isaac leaves rescues and outages in its path

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PEARL, MS (Mississippi News Now) -

Tropical Storm Isaac continued its slow trek across the state Wednesday forcing residents in south Mississippi from their homes and leaving thousands in the dark.

MEMA officials are keeping track of rescues, outages and all response efforts.

On the anniversary of the Hurricane Katrina's landfall the Mississippi National Guard and members of the Department of Homeland Security rescue a family stranded by flood waters.

A couple and their one month old baby were trapped.

The Waveland family rebuilt their home after Katrina and thought the new height of eight feet would keep them safe.

"We know of about nine rescues that had to be performed. there was at least one family that we heard of one of the first rescues this morning on the Pearl River in Hancock county and there were three family members and an infant that were rescued by water," said MEMA spokesman Jeff Rent.

As the rains continued more people were overtaken by rising waters.

Three employees of a Waveland radio station also had to be rescued.

Early Wednesday Hurricane Isaac became practically stationary dumping rain for hours. knocking out power to thousands in south Mississippi by midday Wednesday.

"Trees and power lines coming down go hand in hand, put enough moisture in the soil and those trees are not as sturdy to the tropical storm force winds," added Rent.

Those who chose not to leave found themselves stranded.

Driving winds and rain flooded neighborhoods along the coast turning many areas into lakes.

Governor Phil Bryant reported Wednesday that officers from the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks had rescued at least 58 people in Hancock county.

Flooding has closed state roads in Pearl River, Harrison and Hancock counties.

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