Rising Water Levels Prompt Flood Concerns Along Horse Creek, Manatee River, Little Manatee River and Alafia River
Several Flood Warnings are in effect across parts of west-central Florida as water levels rise along area rivers and creeks. The warnings include locations near Arcadia, Myakka Head, Wimauma and Lithia, highlighting the potential for flooding near waterways, low-lying roads and surrounding communities.
The National Weather Service uses flood warnings when flooding is occurring, imminent or highly likely, making these alerts important for residents and motorists near the affected waterways.
Horse Creek Near Arcadia at SR 72
A Flood Warning is in effect for Horse Creek near Arcadia at State Road 72.
Water levels along Horse Creek can affect areas surrounding the creek and nearby low-lying locations. Residents who live near the waterway should remain alert for rising water, especially following periods of heavy rainfall.
Motorists traveling near SR 72 should never drive through water covering the roadway. Floodwater can conceal washed-out pavement, debris and other hazards.
Manatee River Near Myakka Head at SR 64
A Flood Warning is also in effect for the Manatee River near Myakka Head at State Road 64.
Rising river levels can lead to flooding of low-lying areas near the river and may affect roads, properties and recreational areas close to the water.
Residents near the Manatee River should monitor water levels and remain prepared for changing conditions. Avoid entering flooded areas on foot or in a vehicle.
Little Manatee River at Wimauma at US 301
The Little Manatee River at Wimauma near US 301 is also under a Flood Warning.
Flooding along the river can spread into surrounding low-lying areas as water levels increase. Locations near the river, bridges and drainage areas can become especially vulnerable when additional rainfall falls across the watershed.
Drivers near US 301 and surrounding roads should use caution and be prepared to change routes if flooding affects travel.
Alafia River at Lithia
A Flood Warning is also in effect for the Alafia River at Lithia.
The Alafia River and its surrounding floodplain can experience significant water rises after periods of heavy rainfall. Flooding may affect areas near the river, including roads and low-lying locations.
Residents and visitors near the river should stay away from rapidly moving water. Even shallow moving water can be dangerous, while deeper water may hide hazards beneath the surface.
Flood Safety Remains Critical
Flooding can change quickly, particularly near rivers and creeks. A roadway that appears passable may become dangerous within a short period of time.
Remember:
- Never drive through flooded roadways.
- Turn around and find a safer route if water covers the road.
- Keep children and pets away from swollen rivers, creeks and drainage channels.
- Avoid walking through moving floodwater.
- Monitor updates from the National Weather Service and local emergency officials.
- Be prepared for additional rainfall to cause water levels to rise further.
Flooding does not have to occur directly where you are for travel to become dangerous. Water moving downstream can raise river levels even after rainfall has ended nearby. Flash flooding can also develop rapidly after intense rainfall.
What This Means for Central Florida
The warnings covering Horse Creek near Arcadia, the Manatee River near Myakka Head, the Little Manatee River near Wimauma and the Alafia River at Lithia serve as an important reminder that elevated water levels can create hazards well beyond the immediate river channel.
Residents near these waterways should continue monitoring official updates, avoid flooded areas and take extra care when traveling near bridges, low-water crossings and roads adjacent to rivers and creeks.
Stay weather-aware, respect floodwater and never risk your safety by attempting to cross a flooded road.
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