Several areas throughout Lake County experienced flooding following Hurricane Milton. If you live in an impacted area, please follow the guidelines below. For additional questions or non-emergency assistance regarding flooding, contact the Citizens Information Line at 352-253-9999.
General (CDC Safety Guidelines)
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Stay Out of Flood Water - we don't know exactly what is in floodwater at any given point in time. Floodwater can contain:
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Downed power lines
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Human and livestock waste
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Household, medical, and industrial hazardous waste (chemical, biological, and radiological)
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Coal ash waste that can contain carcinogenic compounds such as arsenic, chromium, and mercury
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Other germs and contaminants that can lead to illness
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Physical objects such as lumber, vehicles, and debris Wild or stray animals such as rodents and snakes
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Exposure to Contaminated Floodwater Can Cause:
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Wound infections
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Skin rash
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Gastrointestinal illness
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Tetanus Leptospirosis (not common)
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Melioidosis (along the Gulf Coast)
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The best way to protect yourself is to stay out of the water.
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If You Come in Contact with Floodwater:
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Wash the area with soap and clean water as soon as possible. If you don't have soap or water, use alcohol-based wipes or sanitizer.
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Take care of wounds and seek medical attention if necessary.
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Wash clothes contaminated with flood or sewage water in hot water and detergent before reusing them. If you must enter floodwater, wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles.
Motorist
Hurricane Milton caused significant flooding across our community, including several highways, roads, and neighborhoods in and around the Astor, Lake Mack, and Deerhaven areas. For your safety and the safety of others, please follow these precautionary steps when approaching water on a roadway:
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Avoid Driving Through Water: If you encounter water on the road, turn around and find an alternate route. Even shallow water can be dangerous.
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Drive Slowly: If you must drive through water, enter at 1-2 mph and proceed at 3-4 mph to avoid flooding your engine and losing control.
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Stay in the Center: Water tends to be shallowest in the center of the road. Drive in the middle to minimize the risk of hydroplaning.
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Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a greater distance between your vehicle and others to allow extra stoppage time and avoid splashing water onto other cars.
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Avoid Hard Braking: Use gentle braking to prevent skidding. If you need to slow down, ease off the accelerator instead of slamming on the brakes.
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Check Your Tires: Ensure your tires are correctly inflated and have good tread to provide better traction on wet roads.
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Turn on Your Lights: Use your headlights to increase visibility and help other drivers see you.
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Dry Your Brakes: After driving through water, lightly tap your brakes to dry them and ensure they work correctly. Remember, your safety is most important.
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If the water appears too deep or you are unsure about crossing, it is always best to turn around and find a safer route.
