Florida Major Flooding Alert: Rivers in Hillsborough and Manatee Counties Overflowing

Photo byNational Weather Service

Severe Flooding Impacting Multiple Rivers in Florida

The National Weather Service in Tampa Bay Ruskin, FL, has issued a Flood Warning for several rivers in Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco, Sarasota, and DeSoto counties. This warning is in effect until 9:00 PM EDT on August 7, 2024. Residents and local authorities should prepare for significant flooding impacts.

Current Conditions and Forecast

Rivers Under Flood Warning:

• Hillsborough River: Moderate flooding forecasted near Hillsborough River State Park and Morris Bridge.
• Alafia River: Major flooding expected at Lithia and Riverview near US 301.
• Little Manatee River: Major flooding forecasted at Wimauma at US 301.
• Manatee River: Moderate flooding expected at Rye Bridge and near Myakka Head at SR 64.
• Cypress Creek: Minor flooding forecasted at SR 54 Worthington Gardens.
• Myakka River: Moderate flooding expected at Myakka River State Park.
• Horse Creek: Moderate flooding forecasted near Arcadia at SR 72.
• Anclote River: Moderate flooding expected at Elfers at Little Road.

Specific Impact Details

• Manatee River at Rye Bridge:
• • Current Stage: 15.3 feet as of 9:15 PM EDT on Tuesday.
  • Forecast: Expected to fall below flood stage by tomorrow afternoon, reaching 6.3 feet by Friday evening.
  • Flood Stage: 11.0 feet.
  • Impacts: At 17.0 feet, water reaches the foundations of elevated homes and the Christian Retreat center. The maximum river stage in the last 24 hours was 20.1 feet, nearing the flood of record.

Safety Precautions and Preparedness Actions

Residents should take the following precautions:

• Avoid Flooded Areas: Do not walk near riverbanks. Caution is urged due to the risk of unstable ground and swift-moving water.
• Turn Around, Don’t Drown: Do not attempt to drive through flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.
• Follow Barricades: Motorists should not drive around barricades or through flooded areas.
• Stay Informed: Monitor local news and weather updates for the latest information. Additional details and safety tips can be found at the National Weather Service’s flood safety website: https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood.

Community Support and Resources

• Local Authorities: Follow the advice and instructions of local emergency services.
• Flood Information: Additional information is available at www.weather.gov.

Next Update

The next statement will be issued Wednesday afternoon by 1:15 PM EDT.

Stay alert and prepared to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you during this flooding event.