LAKE COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – With hurricane season just over a month away, one county has already stepped up its storm preparedness efforts.

The Lake County Public Works Department has acquired six new stormwater pumps to improve its ability to respond to flooding events, thanks to approximately $300,000 in federal American Rescue Plan Act funding.

The need for better equipment became clear after Hurricane Milton brought over a foot of rain to some areas in 2024, overwhelming outdated pumping systems. The newly purchased pumps replace older models that had exceeded their life expectancy.

“These new pumps will provide us a reliable way to address flooding that threatens critical infrastructure and essential property throughout Lake County,” said Jordan Salinger, Operations Director of the Public Works Department.

The trailer-mounted pumps are staged and ready for deployment. They are capable of transporting water several thousand feet and are powerful enough that four units together could drain a typical backyard pool in about seven minutes.

“Flooding poses a risk to many areas of Lake County,” added Megan Milanese, the County’s Emergency Management Director. “The pumps enhance our ability to deploy efficient, reliable tools to help residents whenever bad weather strikes.”

Hurricane season officially begins June 1.

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