Lake County Flooding Update
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The worst is over, according to Lake County Mayor Macie Roberson. However, that does not mean there were not a few close calls, including the sewage plant. “We been building up around it, to keep the water out of the electric so we could keep sewer going for the city of Tiptonville and surrounding areas,” said Roberson. In Tiptonville, Roberson said the Mississippi River crested at just above 48 feet on Friday. That is more than 10 feet above flood stage but it has fallen three to six inches every night. With the added help from the National Guard, residents said they can sleep a little easier at night. “Their presence means a lot and another thing, it helps free up the deputies,” said Roberson. “We know they are doing something now, they are working on something,” said Tiptonville resident, Mary Pitts. She has lived in the city for nearly 60 years. “I have never seen this much water,” she said. “You did not know from day to day, you would hear stories. I was really nervous.” With the worst behind them, residents said all they can do now is wait. “The old saying is, ‘If the water recedes slowly, then it will not come back,'” said Roberson. County officials said they are waiting to hear whether the county will be declared a disaster area. If or when that happens Roberson said FEMA will help pay for 75 percent of the costs.
