Local

Clay County declares state of emergency

A State of Emergency has been declared in Clay County as water levels continue to rise.

Most concerning to county officials is the rise of Black Creek. Some portions of the creek are predicted rise to above 23 feet by Saturday evening.

Levels for the south prong of Black Creek could exceed the levels experienced during Tropical Storm Debby.

A shelter is now open and staffed by the Red Cross at First Baptist Church of Middleburg, 2645 Blanding Blvd.

A Code RED notification call was placed this morning to all residents along the creek to notify residents of the potential danger of the creek levels.

Self-serve sandbags and sand are available for any Clay County residents needing them:

· Station 14 (4003 Everett Avenue in Middleburg)
· Station 20 (303 S. Oakridge Avenue in Green Cove Springs)
· Station 22 (5995 Pine Avenue in Fleming Island)

A phone bank is now open, and will be staffed throughout the day for Clay County residents. Residents requiring information may call (904) 284-7703.

Homeowners along the Black Creek west of Blanding Boulevard woke up to rising water levels Saturday. A flood warning is in place along the creek until Sunday morning.

Many locations in Clay County have seen over half-a-foot of rain which has caused the creek to rise rapidly. The creek level was last reported to be at just over 18 feet.

The creek is estimated to crest at around 19.3 feet by Saturday evening before slowly reseeding.When the creek level rises above 19.0 feet water starts to get into homes.

Sandbags are available at several firehouses for county residents including at Middleburg Station #14 at 4003 Everett Ave.

Here is the latest forecast discussion for rainfall Saturday and Sunday:

Moderate Rainfall Will Be Possible In The Watch Area Through Saturday A
fternoon.

Additional Rainfall Amounts Of Up To One Inch Will Be Possible Especially Near The Coast.

This Additional Rainfall On Top Of Torrential Rains Of Friday May Cause Rivers Streams And Creeks To Go Over Their Banks.
Poor Drainage Areas Will Also Be Susceptible To Flooding.

A Flood Watch Means There Is A Potential For Flooding Based On Current Forecasts.

You Should Monitor Later Forecasts And Be Alert For Possible Flood Warnings. Those Living In Areas Prone To Flooding Should Be Prepared To Take Action Should Flooding Develop.

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