Rachael Floyd, Oak Grove, Mississippi mom of 3 swept to her death in Petal flash flood as bystanders sought to save woman in her SUV vehicle caught in sudden fast moving water.
A Mississippi mother of three has died after she was swept to her death during a flash flood in Petal.
Rachael Floyd, 36, of Oak Grove died after her SUV was swept up by fast rushing water as bystanders sought to help the stranded woman near a shopping center in Petal, near Hattiesburg. Floyd and the vehicle were washed across a parking lot through a culvert.
Witnesses attempted rescuing Floyd from her car as a fast moving current swept, but the vehicle overturned before she was able to escape. Emergency responders later found Floyd’s body on the other side of a nearby culvert.
Surging waters reached about 12ft
Petal Fire Chief Marion Sims told WDAM Floyd and her vehicle were swept away circa 3:29 p.m., Monday afternoon.
‘Rachael was washed downstream roughly 350 yards from where the vehicle actually went into the water.’
Her body was found shortly after 4 p.m. by a dive team on the other side of MS-42.
At the time of the tragedy, the water had reached about twelve feet, WWLT reported.
History of flooding and challenged drainage system
Mississippi Gov. Tate Reeves confirmed the death on X and warned residents to stay off flooded roads.
‘Tragically, Forrest County has reported one death as a result of the flooding,’ Reeves said. ‘Please pray for the family during this incredibly difficult time.’
The severe storms caused widespread flooding throughout the Pine Belt region, forcing numerous road closures and emergency rescues. Officials are continuing to urge drivers to avoid flooded roadways, reminding residents that even a small amount of moving water can quickly become deadly.
Petal Mayor Tony Ducker said the area has a history of flooding, and the drainage system had taken as much water as it could.
Ducker said the city is following weather trends to determine if a new plan of action is needed.
