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After Milton, flooding is increasing in Withlacoochee, posing a threat to homes and roads
Utah

After Milton, flooding is increasing in Withlacoochee, posing a threat to homes and roads


River rises are expected to exceed 13 feet, exceeding Irma levels.

BUSHNELL – Sumter County officials are strongly advising residents along the Withlacoochee River to voluntarily evacuate as the river’s water level has exceeded 11 feet and is expected to exceed 13 feet by Friday, Oct. 18, pushing the river to the stage of one major flooding and not at the stage of minor flooding originally expected in the wake of Hurricane Milton.

On Sunday, the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office posted an alert on Facebook urging residents to be aware of “a significant river rise along County Road 647 in the Nobelton/Bushnell area,” noting that ” the increase will continue to increase through Thursday and possibly beyond.” “

“You are likely to experience water levels rising to the point where it will impact the flow of traffic along the road,” the warning continues. “We ask drivers in advance to pay attention to the waves created by cars passing through. These waves can potentially affect people’s homes. If possible, avoid County Road 647 north and south.”

The forecast levels along the river flowing north/northwest from Polk to Levy County. The Withlacoochee area will exceed levels from Hurricane Irma in 2017, according to a news release.

Out of an abundance of caution, all public boat ramps in Sumter County are closed. If you live in a riverfront home, you can seek shelter at the Sumter County Fairgrounds, 7620 State Road 471, Bushnell.

“Sumter County will also communicate with homeowners directly affected by the flooding to obtain voluntary evacuation and assist with any housing assistance needs approved by the Federal Emergency Management Agency,” the agency said.

Call Sumter County at 352-689-4400 or text 352-282-0573. Updates will continue to be added to sumtercountyfl.gov/alerts. Residents can also visit sumterprepares.com for information on what to bring to the shelter.

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