Flooding in South Louisiana Hits QIGPI’s Lafayette Office
August 20, 2016Homes and businesses across 20 Louisiana parishes were effected by storms that caused anywhere from 3 to more than 30 inches of flooding. Unfortunately, QIGPI is counted in that number. Our Lafayette office took on 6-inches of water. Fortunately, our team of investigators is positioned strategically in cities across Louisiana, and only a few of our team is inconvenienced by this natural disaster.
“Many of our clients have called to ask if we’re OK, and the truth of it is, … we are,” said company founder, Corey Savant. “This storm effected tens of thousands of people, and across a very wide area of our state. We got hit, but we’re up and running. We’re open for business statewide.”
Savant says his team in Lafayette was able to respond quickly to the flooding, and he’s pleased to announce they didn’t have any downtime as a result of the storm.
“Our servers, phones and email remained on throughout the event,” he said. “We had cell service the entire time, and we have access to all our files.”
For now, he’s just concerned about other businesses and homeowners less fortunate.
It’s too early for a total estimate concerning flood damage statewide. However, some reports suggest many as 60,000 homes were flooded in the 20 parish area, and almost as many businesses and / or public facilities. More than 7 trillion gallons of water fell across the area in a 5-day period — this is enough water to fill more than 10 million olympic sized swimming pools. There were 13 deaths reported across the state, there were 20,000-plus rescues made, and damages are estimated at more than $30 million, “a number that will be sure to grow as we learn more about the scope and magnitude of the devastation” said Red Cross official Brad Kieserman.
How Can We Help Flood Victims in Louisiana?
The following organizations are accepting donations: Red Cross – by telephone at 800-RECROSS or text LAFLOODS to 90999 to donate. Companion Animal Alliance, Baton Rouge’s city animal shelter is accepting donations, and is also looking for foster homes for pets, large bath towels, water, and food for volunteers. Donations can be made online at www.CAABR.org
United Way South Louisiana is accepting donations online through it’s website. Checks also can be made to United Way Southeast Louisiana, ATTN: Flood Relief, 2515 Canal St. New Orleans, LA 70119.
The Lamar Dixon Expo Center in Gonzales needs volunteers, and is accepting pet supplies.
United Way of Acadiana is accepting donations, and says it is in need of buckets, bleach, cleaning supplies, bar soap, hand soap, baby food and bottled water.