Louisiana flood damage is set at $200 million

January 4, 1983

After a visit and a promise of federal aid from President Ronald Reagan, Louisiana officials said Monday that statewide damage from flooding totals $200 million and some people may be homeless until spring.

During his one-hour inspection Sunday, the President got a first-hand look at the swollen rivers and bayous that have left 9,600 homeless. And although skies were clear Monday, many of the state's rivers were not expected to crest until Wednesday or Thursday.