St. Johns River Water Management District

News Release

nr09-034

District launches Web pages with flooding resources for hurricane season

PALATKA, Fla. May 29, 2009 - With the start of hurricane season just around the corner, the St. Johns River Water Management District has launched new storm pages on its Web site (www.sjrwmd.com/storm) that provide information to help residents, local governments and elected officials prepare for and deal with severe storms. Hurricane season begins June 1 and ends Nov. 30.

The District's storm pages include information such as flood statements and warnings, river stage and flooding data, and local emergency contact information. Included are links to the National Weather Service, Florida Division of Emergency Management and the U.S. Geological Survey's interactive map of current conditions in the state.

"The storm site allows quick access in one location to a variety of flooding resources, which is beneficial before, during and after severe storms," said Jeff Cole, District communications director. "The links to the National Weather Service's real-time river stage and flooding maps are especially helpful resources following storms."

The District's water resources focus is on a regional level, and local governments focus on drainage systems on the local level. Local governments are also the primary entities responsible for state-of-emergency declarations, evacuations and rescue efforts during flood-related disasters.

The District works closely with local governments year-round to develop improved flood management plans, and to help communities establish and implement strategies to deal with floods once they occur.

In the event of a storm, the District assists local governments by issuing emergency orders that allow for the pumping of water to alleviate flooding when public health and safety are at risk. The District also issues emergency orders to authorize repairs, replacement or restoration of public and private property.

To prepare for severe storm season, individuals can protect themselves and their property by:

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