Hillsborough County Emergency Operations Center opened at 8 a.m. today, as the county prepares for heavy rains from the remnants of Tropical Storm Erika this afternoon.
Residents are encouraged to prepare for the potential of 2 to 3 inches of rain and possible flooding through the middle of the week, with some localized areas possibly receiving higher amounts, according to the National Weather Service.
Residents should drive carefully through areas of standing water, and stay tuned to local television and radio stations for traffic advisories, reports of flooding and other critical information.
Sandbags materials are available today. Residents can go to HillsboroughCounty.org/AtYourService or call (813) 272-5900 to report flooding and road problems, or to request additional information.
Sandbag materials will be available for Hillsborough County residents to make their own sandbags. Each resident must sign their name and provide their home address acknowledging the receipt of 25 sandbags or less.
Sandbag Locations
The following Hillsborough County Public Works locations have sandbags materials available until 4 p.m. today:
– West Service Unit at 9805 Sheldon Road
– South Service Unit at 8718 Old Big Bend Road
– East Service Unit at 4702 Sydney Road
Roads and Drainage Systems
Public Works crews have been working continuously on pumping operations and repairs to drainage systems during the past month in an effort to improve stormwater control. Residents are advised to not conduct their own pumping operations, as this may affect operations in other areas of the county. Residents experiencing flooding who may want to explore the option of pumping water should call (813) 272-5900 and ask to speak with a representative from public works.
A list of roads and areas which have been flooded at some time during the past month can be found at: HillsboroughCounty.org/StaySafe.
Safety Tips During Heavy Rain or Flooding
– Motorists are urged to use care when driving through flooded areas and to follow posted detour signs.
– Never drive through moving water or standing water. Standing water that is only two feet deep can disable most vehicles.
– If you can’t see the road, turn around. Floodwaters may conceal holes or dangerous objects.
– Avoid walking in flooded areas or rapidly flowing water. Only six inches of fast-flowing water can sweep you off your feet.
– If an area is barricaded, there is a reason. Find an alternate route.
– Treat non-functioning traffic signals as a four-way stop.
– Avoid downed or hanging power lines. Always assume the power line is live.
– Be especially cautious at night, when it is harder to see possible flood dangers.