Boat People SOS prep people for Isaac

BAYOU LA BATRE, Ala. (WALA) - Storm preparation is nothing new for people living in our area. And with a storm brewing, residents living in flood prone spots are keeping an eye on Isaac.

Regina Barbour knows firsthand the devastation tropical trouble can bring.

Photos: Tropical Storm Isaac

Seven years ago, Hurricane Katrina wiped out her Bayou La Batre home and flood waters swamped the place.

"I lost everything except for the clothes on my back," said Barbour.

Back then, the 77-year-old's home was built on the ground. Now, it is more than 12 feet off the ground.

Despite the improvement, Regina Barbour is still keeping an eye on Isaac.

"We've got four televisions going. One turned to every station" said Barbour. "And a weather radio right in there where I sit."

Boat People SOS isn't taking any chances, either.

It's a national Vietnamese American community organization with the mission to "empower, organize, and equip Vietnamese individuals and communities in their pursuit of liberty and dignity."

There is a large Vietnamese population living in Bayou La Batre. It relies on BPSOS during disasters.

David Pham with BPSOS was busy Friday translating storm information for the people he serves.

Pham was putting together flyers with helpful hurricane information.

"Right now, we have had contact with the local EMA and we are waiting on the Federal Emergency Management to give us the word. Pretty much we are translating information we get from the meetings we attend and trying to get it to the people in the community. Because our community doesn't have access to traditional local news here," said Pham.

With Isaac still days away from having any type of impact on our area, people living in South Mobile County are playing it by ear.

Most don't seem too worried with the storm or its possible path.

Larry Barnes spent the morning fishing.

A native of South Mobile County, Barnes has seen a storm or two, including Hurricane Katrina in 2007.

Barnes said his Irvington home was spared major damage from the Hurricane.

"We lost a few trees and had a little damage to the house," said Barnes.

He said trying to guess a storm's path is anyone's guess.

"Who knows? Daddy says the Lord makes the weather and we make the trip. Go fishing when we can and worry about that when it gets here."

Regina Barbour hopes Isaac won't get here at all.