APOPKA, Fla. – An Apopka family is bracing for the storm expected to hit Central Florida. They worry their property will be consumed by water following heavy rainfall.
Venus Griffith lives in Clear Lake Estates. She said her community has already been struggling with flooding issues.
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“It’s getting worse. Do something,” Griffith said.
Water from Clear Water Lake is filtering into her backyard, and it will not drain.
She said she has been pleading with both city and county officials to fix the flooding problems before the storm hits.
Griffith said flooding in her community has been an issue for at least five years.
She and her neighbors blame poor infrastructure for the flooding. Residents said they are frustrated with city leaders because they have yet to offer solutions, instead encouraging residents to allow the water to evaporate.
“I voted for these people here. I had confidence in them. I had trust in them, and they failed me as well as Apopka,” Griffith said.
As severe weather approaches, Griffith hoped city leaders would help her with more urgency.
“I asked for sandbags. Guess what: I got zero today,” she said.
She said the standing water in her backyard has also impacted more than 60 trees over a five-year period.
Now, Griffith believes they pose a threat to her home.
“If we have some good wind out here, these trees are projectiles,” Griffith said.
With just days left before impact, Griffith said she does not know whom to turn to.
“I’m running out of time. I’m running out of options,” Griffith said.
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