ASTOR, Fla. – Concerns about flooding are increasing for people who live in Astor as some streets are already filled with water ahead of a potential impact from Hurricane Helene.
After heavy rain in recent weeks, the St. Johns River has been at moderate flood stage for several days.
Water from the swelling river has spilled into a nearby neighborhood off State Road 40, which is a vulnerable location for flooding.
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Claudia Roland has lived off the St. Johns for more than 20 years and said the river typically floods after heavy rain, but has worries about it happening before a hurricane.
“It’s concerning because that’s how it was with Ian and Irma,” she said. “We already had waterfront and water back property and when it hit, water was everywhere.”
With elevated water levels, Lake County closed the Pearl Street Boat Ramp and Butler Street Boat Ramp on Wednesday.
Water management officials said the water level is expected to rise slightly in the coming days, but not reach a major flood stage.
“There’s not much you can do except be ready,” Roland said. “You know what they say, prepare for the worst and hope for the best.”
Schools and County Offices will be closed on Thursday, Sept. 26, and will be assessed for reopening on Friday, Sept. 27
The Citizens Information Line (CIL) began operation Tuesday. It’s open Wednesday and Thursday from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. to assist residents who call (352) 253-9999.