This past weekend, President Obama signed a disaster declaration for the state of Louisiana following rains that have left more than two-feet of water in some areas and caused serious flooding, forcing thousands of people out of their homes. As of now, the death toll has risen from four victims to six and is not expected to be finalized for several more days.

While the rain that has been hitting Southeastern Louisiana for days has come to a stop, the trouble caused by the flooding is far from over. According to NBC, 20,000 people have been rescued and over 12,000 were in shelters on Sunday night. Civilians have been instructed to drive only if absolutely necessary, as many roads have not been cleared. In some areas, the flooding is still getting worse.

“The flooding isn’t over because all the water that’s upstream has to flow downstream,” said Weather Channel meteorologist Kevin Roth. “The river and the creeks will probably continue to rise.”

Local churches and community centers have been identified as shelters for evacuees, some of whom are just now being rescued by the National Guard and other civilians with high water vehicles.

As details of events in Baton Rogue and surrounding areas become clear, we will be sure to update you. If you would like to help, there are multiple fundraisers going on for the victims of the flooding, including one by the Red Cross (select Louisiana Floods in the drop down menu). A fundraiser was also started by the Rho Epsilon chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., which hopes to raise $10,000 and give $500 to each family in need.

Photo Courtesy: Twitter, Louisiana Department of Transportation