WEBBERS FALLS, Okla. — The town of Webbers Falls is under mandatory evacuation. The Arkansas River is expected to rise even more, which will threaten some homes.
Officials say it's not safe for anyone in the town, which has a population of about 600. Officials want to remind everyone to take the evacuation warning seriously. They say if you decide to stay, it is at your own risk, so you should write your name on your arm in permanent marker for identification.
Many people living in Webbers Falls are not taking any chances and already have left town.
Others say they are veterans of spring flooding and are not so easily moved.
"Everybody wants to have a hurricane party," George O'Brien said. "I said, 'Well we're going to have ourselves a flood party tonight.' When we can't swim no more, I've got my boat up there. It's anchored. I'll just drag it down here."
We caught up with a couple earlier this morning as they were loading up their car.
The water in the Arkansas River in by Webbers Falls is already starting to flood some people’s back porches and garages. This homeowner‘s fence is slowly going under water. #Oklahoma #okwx @KJRH2HD pic.twitter.com/HStMb3xB8E
— Gitzel Puente (@gitzelpuenteTV) May 22, 2019
Marlene and Andy Paul live with their two dogs right behind the Arkansas River near Webbers Falls city park.
They're concerned the water is going to flood their home. They said the last time the water got this high was a few years ago, but they stayed put.
Now, they're paying close attention to evacuation warnings.
"We're getting our pictures and clothes and the important things, important papers, and that's about all we can do.”
Earlier today.. The Paul's garage had already started to flood and their backyard fence was almost under water.
They hope when they come back, they won't have to rebuild.
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