LIVE OAK, FLA., MARCH 5, 2024 – This week is Florida Flood Awareness Week, and the Suwannee River Water Management District (District) wants to remind residents of the dangers of flooding.
Flooding is one of the most common hazards in Florida – in the last year, the District has experienced multiple flooding events – and due to the many different types of flooding, residents face potential threats from flooding year-round.
“Flooding can happen very quickly, and we always need to be aware of changing conditions and our surroundings,” said Hugh Thomas, executive director of the District. “Residents need to be prepared for all phases of the storm to ensure their safety in the event of a worst-case scenario.”
According to the Florida Division of Emergency Management, Florida can experience five types of flooding, including both flash flooding and urban flooding from afternoon thunderstorms; riverine flooding from excess rainfall runoff; coastal flooding prompted by sea conditions and weather events; and widespread areal flooding from rainfall due to a tropical system. Rainfall intensity and duration can have a significant impact on flooding, which is why residents are encouraged to be aware of potential flooding year-round.
It’s important for residents to have a plan in place – knowing how to prepare for a flood, how to stay safe during a flood, and then what to do after a flood. Having a plan in place is important by knowing how floodwaters might affect your property, being prepared to evacuate if advised to do so, and staying informed of changing conditions.
Useful links about flooding information can be found on the District’s website, which also includes information like current river levels and rainfall data.
The mission of the Suwannee River Water Management District is to protect and manage water resources using science-based solutions to support natural systems and the needs of the public. Headquartered in Live Oak, Florida, the District serves 15 surrounding north-central Florida counties.
For more information about the District, visit www.MySuwanneeRiver.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter.
###