HERNANDO COIUNTY, Fla. – Hernando County Emergency Management has issued an alert that the Withlacoochee River has reached minor flood stage at the Trilby gauge, currently measuring 12.31 feet and expected to crest at 12.5 feet over the weekend.
The river is anticipated to start receding late Monday into Tuesday, though this is subject to change based on weather conditions.
Sandbag Distribution Site Open
A sandbag distribution site has been set up at the Ridge Manor Community Center to help residents protect their properties. The site will be open:
- Friday, August 16th from Noon to 7pm
- Saturday, August 17th from 7am to 7pm
- Sunday, August 18th from 7am to 7pm
- Monday, August 19th from 7am to 7pm
Read: Hernando County Drug Bust Leads To Arrests And Confiscations In Brooksville
Important Information for Residents
- Evacuation: If you live in a low-lying area and decide to evacuate, seek shelter with family, friends, or at a hotel. Do not drive through flooded roads. Remember to turn off power at your home before leaving to prevent potential fires.
- Monitor River Levels: Stay updated on the river levels by visiting www.Weather.gov/serfc/ and tracking the Trilby gauges.
- Contamination and Damage: Be aware that floodwaters can contaminate water wells and septic systems. Water testing should be done once the water recedes. Also, expect potential infrastructure damage and power outages.
- Emergency Assistance: If you need help evacuating, call 9-1-1.
Sandbagging Tips:
- Fill bags only one-half to two-thirds full.
- Overfilling can lead to leaky sandbag walls.
- Stack sandbags so that the seams are staggered.
- Tuck the top of each bag under to create a tight seal.
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