HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) announced today the closure of navigation on the Hillsborough River at Structure S-155 due to the high-velocity water flow caused by Tropical Storm Debby. This closure is necessary to meet federal safety standards.
Boat barriers will be installed where Interstate 75 crosses the Hillsborough River, effectively restricting navigation in that area. Structure S-155, located north of Morris Bridge Road and east of I-75, is a critical component of the Tampa Bypass Canal System.
Read: Tropical Storm Debby To Douse North And South Carolina Again Before Moving North
The Hillsborough River’s water level is currently close to the threshold that triggers the closure of S-155, which would activate the Hillsborough Flood Detention Area. The District is closely monitoring water levels as Tropical Storm Debby continues to impact the region.
The Tampa Bypass Canal System, designed to prevent flooding in the aftermath of Hurricane Donna in 1960, includes the Hillsborough Flood Detention Area, the Tampa Bypass Canal, and the Harney Canal. It plays a crucial role in managing floodwaters from the Hillsborough River and protecting nearby communities.
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