Flooding was because of two major storm systems that deposited record levels of rainfall on the Mississippi River watershed.

But many decided to stay put building dykes around their houses instead, creating tiny island homes.

Photo: Getty Images

This aerial shot over Vicksburg shows the ominous rise of floodwater around homes.

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(Photo: Gerald Herbert)

Sandbags laid out in piles protect a road in Stepensville, Louisiana.

Photo: Getty Images

Submerged buildings are seen near Lake Providence, Louisiana, on May 18, 2011.

(Photo: Eric Thayer)

Sources:The Atlantic/Daily Mail

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