As floodwaters continue to rise, the cities of Jackson and Ridgeland have ordered mandatory evacuations for some low-lying areas near the Pearl River.

The Pearl River at Jackson is expected to crest Sunday at 38 feet, 10 feet above flood stages.

On Friday, Jackson Mayor Chokwe Lumumba issued an emergency proclamation to evacuate areas of the city due to the potential for flooding. The mandatory evacuation begins at noon Friday and must be accomplished by noon Saturday.

The order will be in effect for at least seven days and be reviewed every seven days until there is no longer and emergency or hazard, officials said.

Areas affected in Jackson include any area near the Pearl River in the following areas:

• Upper Northeast Jackson
• Westbrook Road
• River Road
• S. West Street area
• Hightower community
• Silas Brown Street
• Also, any areas where structures flood when the Pearl River is at 33 feet or higher.

Also, Flowood in Rankin County has closed Old Brandon Road from I-55 to the Silas Brown Bridge.