WAKULLA CO., Fla.-- The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) Division of Emergency Management is advising residents who live in low-lying areas to continue to monitor the rising waters.
The rain fell from Friday, Feb. 22 through Tuesday, Feb. 26., and the National Weather Service estimated approximately 10 inches of rain over the entire event.
Officials say the rainfall that occurred on Monday night left an impact. Emergency Management Director Scott Nelson traveled the county Tuesday morning and said he could see a major difference over Monday night.
The creeks are now running hard enough to foam and water can be seen all over the county, according to officials. The Ochlockonee River rose just over one foot overnight in Smith Creek. The flood predictions for Smith Creek residents leave the water level very close to flooding some low-lying homes.
The Sopchoppy River is not predicted to reach flood stage. The Upper St. Marks River is expected to reach minor flood stage (no homes impacted) with minor flooding on Old Plank Road.
The WCSO has received more than 30 down power line or down tree calls since early morning Tuesday, Feb. 26. Gusty winds were reported and small debris was observed on many roads throughout the county.
Two road closures have been required at Easy Street South in Smith Creek and the 600 block of Whiddon Lake Road near Black Creek are closed due to water over the road.
WCSO will continue to monitor the flooding impacts. So far no damage to structures has occurred. The message to citizens is that those prone to flooding in low-lying areas and near rivers should monitor conditions and be prepared to take steps as necessary to protect property.
Residents are asked to avoid driving through flooded roads (“turn around, don’t drown”) and to avoid downed power lines. The full impact of the potential flooding will not arrive in Wakulla County until later in the week.
