Evacuees may land in Cape

Hurricane evacuees from Louisiana may find their way to Cape Girardeau.

Cape Girardeau County announced today that it will offer temporary shelters as part of a statewide response.

Southeast Missourian reporter Peg McNichol will follow this story as it develops.

Here is the text of a press release issued by Cape Girardeau County just before noon Saturday:

The State of Louisiana has requested that the State of Missouri offer assistance in housing potential evacuees from the oncoming Hurricane Gustav. Missouri has offered to provide temporary shelters for approximately 3000 evacuees at different locations throughout the state.

Cape Girardeau County's proximity to Interstate 55 makes it an important location for evacuees traveling north. Local Agencies have coordinated with State Emergency Management (SEMA) for up to 200 evacuees to be temporarily sheltered in Cape Girardeau County.

Upon arrival, evacuees are to contact the American Red Cross for assistance at (573)335-9471. The Red Cross will direct evacuees to a temporary sheltering location at that time. Arrangements will be made for care of any pets traveling with evacuees.

At this time, the Humane Society is requesting donations of animal kennels or carriers. These kennels may be dropped off at the following address:

Humane Society

2536 Boutin Rd.

Cape Girardeau, MO 63701