IBERIA PARISH, La. (KLFY) -- With the threat of high winds, heavy rains, and flooding approaching, Iberia Parish officials say residents south of Hwy 90 should evacuate -- starting now.

Iberia Parish President M. Larry Richard said the recommendation for voluntary evacuation, effective 8 p.m. Monday, comes after speaking with representatives of the National Weather Service, Iberia Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness and other similar agencies.

Richard said other residents of the parish who should consider evacuating include:

• anyone living in areas vulnerable to potential storm surges
• anyone with special needs
• anyone living in low-lying areas along lakes, bayous, streams and drainage structures that have experienced flooding in the past
• anyone living in a structure that has experienced flooding following heavy rain events

Residents who decide to sit out the storm should immediately begin to check emergency supplies and follow local news outlets for updates.

"Residents who choose to remain may find themselves without power and unable to leave the area until floodwaters recede and storm debris is removed," Richard said.

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