SUMTER COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – Sumter County officials are asking residents along the Withlacoochee River to voluntarily evacuate as river levels have risen beyond 11 feet and are expected to surpass 13 feet by October 18, reaching a major flood stage, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).

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The Sumter County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) asks that you be aware of “substantial river rise along CR 647 north and south.” Courtesy: SCSO/Facebook
Important information from Sumter County:
  • River levels have exceeded 11 feet and are expected to surpass 13 feet by October 18.
  • Major flood stage expected, surpassing 2017 levels from Hurricane Irma.
  • Sumter County public boat ramps are closed due to unsafe conditions.
  • Voluntary evacuation encouraged; shelter available at Sumter County Fairgrounds.
  • Direct assistance for housing needs will be coordinated with FEMA.
  • Residents can contact Sumter County for updates via phone, text, or Facebook.
  • Emergency alerts can be subscribed to at sumtercountyfl.gov/alerts; shelter preparedness info at sumterprepares.com.

You can view the NWS interactive map of flood stages to stay informed.