Historic flooding threatens communities in the South
More than 40 million Americans are bracing for more severe storms.
A tornado tore through Ohio Monday, northwest of Dayton, damaging several buildings. Large pieces of hail pounded South Carolina and winds climbed to around 70 miles an hour. Further south, rising rivers in Louisiana and Texas forced evacuations.
Floodwaters have submerged the town of Deweyville, Texas, turning this community of about 1,000 people into an island and swamping homes, schools and cars.
"We've been kind of going around the clock between the houses, trying to get stuff high as we can. I don't know if it'll be any good, but we can try," said a resident.
Mandatory evacuations have been ordered for areas along the Sabine River, which has swollen to unprecedented levels. Forecasters say when the river reaches 32 feet, the flooding is catastrophic, but it's already surpassed that level and is still rising.
Still, some have chosen to stay.
"Been here probably 50 years. I'm just sitting here waiting, watching, keeping my house safe," said another resident.
After days of torrential rain, record amounts of water were released from the Toledo Bend Reservoir. That water is now rushing down the Sabine River into Deweyville.
"Seventy-five years old, never seen it like this before," said another resident.
In Louisiana, the severe flooding has damaged more than 6,000 buildings. The Pearl River has reached its second highest crest on record, as water continues to push into communities.
The Sabine River is expected to crest Tuesday at around 35 feet, more than 10 feet above flood stage.