Reeves declares emergency ahead of expected flooding

Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves has declared a state of emergency ahead of potentially massive flooding from a rising river sooner than expected. During a news conference, Reeves said officials now expect the Pearl River to crest at 36 feet late Sunday or early Monday in the Jackson area. He says that's about 24 hours earlier than was initially anticipated. If it occurs, he said streets and businesses will flood. National Weather Service senior hydrologist Marty Pope describes the pending weather as a long-term situation anywhere from five to seven days. Reeves said no mandatory evacuations have been ordered. He and other officials strongly encouraged residents to get out if necessary.