A flood watch has been issued for portions of northeast and north central Florida, including parts of Marion, Alachua, Gilchrist, and Putnam counties, through 8 p.m. on Thursday.
According to the National Weather Service in Jacksonville, an additional three to six inches of rainfall is forecast through Thursday evening, and locally higher totals are possible.
These heavy rainfall amounts over saturated soil conditions can lead to flooding. Excessive runoff may result in the flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone areas.
Marion County was drenched by a torrential downpour on Tuesday morning. Roadways were flooded and damage from the storms resulted in the closure of several parks in Ocala.
The City of Ocala is reminding citizens to use caution while driving, and roads that appear to be washed out or flooded should not be used. If you see standing water within a road, remember the saying: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.”
Rapid flowing streams or ditches are capable of sweeping an individual off their feet and carrying a vehicle downstream:
- Six inches of fast-moving water can knock over and carry away an adult.
- A small car can be carried away by 12 inches of fast-moving water.
- Most large SUVs, vans, and trucks can be carried away by 12 to 24 inches of fast-moving water.
The City of Ocala encourages citizens to monitor later weather forecasts and to be alert for possible flood warnings. Those living in flood-prone areas should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.