Flood Waters Rise to Record Levels in Kansas and Texas
Recent flooding in the states of Kansas and Texas - home to several Phi Theta
Kappa chapters - has caused extensive damage to people's homes, lives and
communities. Hundreds of residents have been evacuated as flood waters
rise to record levels in some areas.
Torrential downpours began
hammering the southern Plains more than a week ago with Texas getting the
worst of the storm system. Rising rivers in northern Texas have caused residents
to evacuate their homes - uncertain of when they will return.
Flood
waters have also reached record levels in the towns of Coffeyville and Independence
in Kansas. Portions of Coffeyville are submerged under 30 feet of water.
No flooding has been reported at Coffeyville Community College,
according to advisor Linda McFate.
Independence Community
College chapter advisor Karen Roush says many roads and highways have been
shut down due to the flooding, which leaves residents stranded in their
homes.
At a nearby refinery a broken petroleum line caused oil
to seep into the already rising flood waters - causing contamination. Officials
have urged residents to stay indoors and away from flood waters for fear
of health risks.
Roush says she and her husband attempted to
pick up supplies in Coffeyville but were met with two problems - lack of bottled
water and an overpowering smell.
"It was like the entire town
smelled of diesel," said Roush.
McFate said anyone wishing
to help should send donations to the Red
Cross or contact the Pioneer
Red Cross chapter, which serves Coffeyville.
