We're updating the floods in Clay County as Tropical Storm Debby pounds NE Florida. Here is emergency information from the Clay County Emergency OPerations Center:
Aggressive rising of the Black Creek banks prompted County Emergency Management officials to recommend the evacuation of residents in low-lying areas. Rainfall of approximately 4-5" tonight, followed by at least as much tomorrow, would drive the flooding of Black Creek well above the earlier estimate of 19 feet, with predictions of 22+ feet a real possibility.
The Clay County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains at Level 2 activation throughout the night, with continued monitoring of this system.
A Local State of Emergency Declaration was signed by the County Manager earlier tonight.
**Clay County is now at a MAJOR flood status, with conditions anticipated to continue deteriorating for some areas prior to dawn. The creek is now at 21.8', which is over 5 ½' above flood stage. With the anticipated rainfall throughout the night and into the next few days, record flood levels could be experienced in Clay County.
Record past flooding of Clay County:
1919 25.3'
1992 24.7'
**A shelter for residents will open at Middleburg High School, 3750 CR 220, in Middleburg. Any residents needing assistance with evacuation should contact the Emergency Operations hotline @ (904) 284- 7703. The hotline will be staffed throughout the night.
Many areas throughout Clay County are experiencing significant flooding conditions, with specific concern for those in areas adjacent to Black Creek, or other tributaries prone to flooding.
Failure to make plans for evacuation could potentially trap residents in flooded areas, with Emergency Management officials unable to access them until flood waters recede.
Families with Special Needs members should ensure they are registered with the County Emergency Management Special Needs Registry, and should decide at this time if they or their family members may be endangered by remaining in their current location.
The Clay County Sheriff's Office will have deputies throughout the county assisting residents with traffic and evacuation efforts. They caution against driving past any barricades, due to water hazards in closed roadways.
Health Department officials caution residents to remain out of the flood waters, and prevent children from playing in the floodwaters due to the possibility of:
" Flooded septic systems, which could release sewage into the waters
"Flooded well heads. Residents experiencing flooded well heads should boil water or drink bottled water, and contact the Clay County Health Department for additional information to ensure the safety of their wells @ (904) 529-2800
"Buried debris in floodwaters
"Wildlife which may displaced due to flooding, such as snakes, rodents, or other animals
"Following contact with floodwaters, residents should ensure adequate washing of affected areas with soap and water
For additional information on health concerns from flooding, log onto www.healthyclaycounty.org or www.claycountygov.com.
Fill your own sandbags and sand are available free at the following locations:
Fire Station 14 @ 4003 Everett Avenue
Fire Station 22 @ 5995 Pine Avenue
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