St Johns clears – flooding continues in Flagler County

As Historic City News continues to monitor the weather conditions in the area, it is being reported that most of St Johns County flooding has subsided; Flagler County continues to experience isolated flooding in some areas of the county.

The National Weather Service is reporting to Historic City News that rain is expected to continue through the weekend and into Monday and Tuesday, though the rain is not expected to be as heavy as it was on Friday. Official rain totals in Flagler County over the past 24 hours are between 5 and 10 inches, with a few areas receiving 11 inches according to the Weather Service. The City of Palm Coast and some portions of western Flagler County are the most heavily impacted.

A Flood Watch was lifted at 8:00 p.m. this evening, however, law enforcement officials have received reports of vehicles being abandoned in the roadway due to flooding. There have also been reports of downed trees. At this time, Flagler County’s Princess Place and the City of Palm Coast’s Frieda Zamba Swimming Pool are closed until conditions improve.

Palm Coast Public Works crews and contractors are continuing to use tank trucks to pump down the City’s wastewater collection stations, which were inundated with storm water. That pumping down of the wastewater collection stations will continue as long as needed.

Residents are urged not to use excessive water while the wastewater system is stressed. Residents are asked to avoid doing laundry, irrigating lawns and washing cars today.

Emergency Management officials are encouraging residents to follow these safety steps:

•Do not drive on or through flooded streets; turn around and find an alternate route.
•If flooding occurs, get to higher ground.
•Avoid already flooded areas and do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
•Do not walk through standing water which could be contaminated.
•Flash flood situations can develop off-shore quickly so pay close attention to changing weather.
•Be especially cautious at night when it’s harder to recognize flood dangers.
•Seek shelter immediately if you hear thunder because you are within striking distance of lightening.