PANOLA COUNTY, Texas — Panola County is deploying emergency personnel to Joaquin in anticipation of response operations along the Sabine River.
The Texas Division of Emergency Management is set to stage a Texas Military Department Ground Transportation Platoon and 2 Swift Water Boat Squads in Joaquin.
Panola County Judge Rodger McLane said in a Facebook post, "Joaquin's location along the river in Shelby County and proximity to Panola County will allow for a swift response should the need arise."
The Texas Department of Transportation has placed barricades in the ditches near the FM 2517 river bridge should the flood require the bridge’s closure, according to the post.
On Wednesday, McLane urged residents to be aware of low-lying areas for "potential historic flooding."
McLane released a statement to his Facebook page and listed these areas of specific concern:
- All areas along the Sabine River and its tributaries north of Logansport
- Those living along Martin Creek and its tributaries in the Tatum area
- CR 224 along Irons Bayou
- CR 210 along Irons Bayou
- US Hwy 59 North along Irons Bayou
- The area south of CR 2151 and North of State Hwy 149
- CR 307 along Jackson Creek
- CR 3171 and 3172
- PR 848 and 8481 and CR 448
- Low-lying areas on CR 127 and 129 along Brushy Creek
- All residences adjoining Dixie Lake and County Roads 403 and 4034.
McLane encouraged residents to prepare accordingly and be aware of their surroundings, as events may change quickly. McLane also suggested keeping medications, a change of clothing and other essentials nearby.