LIVE OAK, FLA., Sept. 12, 2017 – The Suwannee River Water Management District (District) and National Weather Service are forecasting near record water levels along the Santa Fe River. Water levels are expected to peak by September 14, 2017 as impacts from rainfall associated with Hurricane Irma accumulate. 

River levels on the Santa Fe River near Fort White are expected to reach 35.4 feet (NAVD 88) which is near the 100-year flood elevation level of 36 feet (NADV 88) and higher than the last recorded highs during Hurricane Dora in 1964. Homes built to code/regulation should have been constructed to the 100-year flood elevation level plus one foot.  Homes built prior to mid 1980's are more likely to be built with a finished first floor elevation below this level. The greatest impact from flood waters will be loss of access.

The District is urging residents and business owners near and along the Santa Fe River to identify a way in and out of their property so they do not become isolated by water. Those along the river should also clear out any items of value in low lying areas. Even large, heavy items, such as trailers and equipment, can be carried away by flood waters. 

Upstream gauges along the Santa Fe River are already showing flood levels. The Graham gauge at County Road 225 and the New River gauge at Lake Butler have already crested at or above record stages from Hurricane Dora. 

The District provides river and lake levels with real-time updates and flood predictions. Visit http://www.mysuwanneeriver.org/realtime/river-levels.php to check gauges throughout the District. 

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. The District holds true to the belief of water for nature, water for people. 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 and Twitter, search @SRWMD. 

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