A voluntary evacuation order is in effect for about 4,000 residents living along the river.

BROOKSVILLE – Hernando County Emergency Management said the Withlacoochee River has reached major flood stage at the Trilby gauge.

The river is currently at 16.79 feet and is expected to crest at 17.5 feet Wednesday. The crest is expected to last two days before the river begins to recede.

A voluntary evacuation order is in effect for approximately 4,000 residents living along the Withlacoochee River. More than 1,900 properties could potentially flood. First responders have been actively on site encouraging residents to heed the evacuation warning. The Enrichment Center, at 800 John Gary Grubbs Blvd. in Brooksville, has been designated as a host shelter.

Residents should be aware of the possibility that water wells and septic systems could become contaminated. Water testing should occur once water recedes. Infrastructure damages and power outages should also be expected.

The 2004 hurricane season was the last time the Withlacoochee River experienced this level of flooding. Go to weather.gov to track flooding at the Trilby and Croom gauges.

Hernando is a disaster-designated Florida county. Residents must register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency for disaster assistance – even if you have insurance. Go to fema.gov for information.

Hernando County’s Office of Emergency Management is monitoring storm impacts. Go to these web and social media sites for more information:
* For the latest local conditions and a complete list of news alerts go to HernandoCounty.us
* Report road closures by calling (352) 754-4083 or go to hernandocounty.us for a complete list
* Sign up to receive weather alerts at AlertHernando.org
* Follow on Facebook @HernandoCoGov
* Follow on Twitter @HernandoCoGov
* Help track damage from Hurricane Irma by using #HernandoRecovers

Photo of Withlacoochie River in Hernando County courtesy of the Southwest Florida Water Management District.

Hernando County | Withlacoochie River | Flooding | Hernando Recovers | Tampabay News | TB Reporter

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