VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — Volusia County officials are urging residents near the St. Johns River to prepare for potential flooding as river levels are projected to rise steadily over the next several days. Heavy rainfall across Central Florida is draining into the waterway, threatening low-lying properties and nearby roads.
To assist property owners with flood mitigation, a self-service sandbag distribution site has been established adjacent to Volusia County Fire Rescue Station 36 at 180 N. State Road 415 in Osteen. The facility provides free sand and bags. Today, Nov. 3, the site will remain open until 5 p.m. Beginning Wednesday, Nov. 4, operations will run daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. until further notice.
Residents must bring their own shovels and gloves to fill bags. County personnel recommend bringing assistance to help load vehicles, as the filled sandbags can weigh more than 30 pounds.
The St. Johns River flows north from its headwaters in Indian River County through Brevard and Volusia counties. Although Volusia County avoided the severe rainfall seen in neighboring areas, runoff from surrounding regions is moving downstream into local stretches of the river.
Residents in riverside communities, including Astor, Hontoon Island, Lake Harney, Stone Island, and waterfront sections near DeLand, are advised to prepare for rising water that may cover roads and restrict access to properties.
Officials are not recommending evacuations at this time, but they urge households to stockpile several days of supplies. Essential items include nonperishable food, drinking water, prescription medications, pet food, and specialized necessities for young children, older adults, or individuals who depend on medical equipment.
Volusia County officials will continue to monitor river conditions and coordinate with the National Weather Service and other partner agencies as water levels rise.
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