Heavy rain has pushed the Peace River and Horse Creek into flood stage, and the National Weather Service is forecasting major flooding along the Peace River at Arcadia. The river reached 15.7 feet and was still rising Wednesday evening, with a crest of 16.5 feet expected Thursday evening. At 16 feet, up to 60 homes in River Acres would flood, along with the Woman’s Club and American Legion, so residents in low-lying DeSoto County neighborhoods should act now rather than wait for the crest.
Horse Creek near Arcadia sat at 13.5 feet and should fall below flood stage by Saturday morning, though buildings in Hidden Oak could flood at 14 feet. In Hardee County, minor flooding is happening along the Peace River at Zolfo Springs, where the river was at 16.4 feet, and a flood warning remains in effect for the Alafia River at Lithia in Hillsborough County.
Officials are urging residents to move vehicles and valuables to higher ground and to avoid flooded roads entirely. It only takes a foot of moving water to sweep away a vehicle, and water over a road can hide washed-out pavement underneath. If you’re near the river, check your evacuation routes, keep phones charged, and check on older neighbors who may need a hand.
Are you seeing high water in your neighborhood? Share what you’re noticing so your Suncoast neighbors know what’s coming.
