PANEWS: Forecaster says water will stay

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Water associated with the storm surge from Hurricane Ike has been steadily receding.

Although in some areas, the water is still covering the roadways.

"It is gradually receding and hopefully will be out of the worries hit areas by late (Sunday) tonight," said Jonathan Brazzell, hydrologist/meteorologist."In some areas the water may not recede until Tuesday."

According to Brazzell, Orange and Bridge City received the most flood damage.

The rain gauge posted near the Rainbow Bridge topped out at 9.6 feet before it stopped measuring the water, Brazzell said. Additionally the water from Cow Bayou measured 11 feet above flood stage.

However, there are been significant amounts of rainfall throughout the day Sunday, but it is expected to end soon but not before some areas receive up to five inches, he added.

Even though there may be some rainfall it is not enough to stop the water from receding, Brazzell said.

"There has been widespread rainfall with showers and thunderstorms which may produce heavy rainfall," Brazzell said. "The chances of rain is expected to decrease and it looks pretty good for the rest off the week."

Temperatures will be in the mid 80s with lows in the upper 60s for the next few days, he said.