After the historic flood that left at least six people dead over the weekend in Louisiana, stories of the kindness that truckers showed to others caught in the disaster have begun to emerge.
Federal authorities have declared a state of emergency after flood waters caused by over 30 inches of rain forced 20,000 people from their homes.
Deadly Flood Strands Over 1500 Drivers On I-12
The crisis also left thousands of truckers and motorists stranded for over 24 hours on I-12. While you might have expected hostility caused by fear of the flooding, frustration over the incredible traffic delays, and impatience with the August heat and humidity, there are a number of stories coming out about truckers doing what they could to help those stranded on the road.
Truckers Use Disaster As Opportunity To Help Others
One trucker hauling produce opened up the contents of us rig to help feed stranded families. According to the viral Facebook post on the act of the kindness, the driver’s company, Louisiana Fresh Produce out of New Orleans, gave him the go-ahead to give away his load.
Other stories coming out of Louisiana say that truck drivers who had the space available allowed mothers with children to lie down in their air conditioned cabs to escape from the heat. Truckers were also reportedly sharing water with those who weren’t prepared to spend the night stuck on the road.
Several news outlets also report that a truck driver made a big batch of spaghetti and announced that it was ready with his or her airhorn.
Trucker Gator-Lea Inglis had been without food or water for a day when a National Guard member tossed him a bottle of water. Instead of drinking it, he gave it to a kid.
Louisiana Governor John Bel Edwards said that all of the stranded drivers were rescued as of 9 p.m. last night.
Sources:
ABC News
CBS Dallas
WGNO