Residents of St. Augustine's flood-prone areas, brace yourselves for a soggy week ahead. The city forecasts a surge of street flooding tied to a mix of high winds, persistent rain, and the natural phenomena known as astronomical and king tides. The wet period is set to drench the neighborhood streets from next Tuesday through Sunday. City of St. Augustine's officials warn citizens to steer clear of flood waters, whether on foot or behind the wheel, citing both safety and health risks.
For those thinking they can safely navigate the inundated roads, think again. Driving into the flooded zones isn't just risky, it's disruptive, creating waves that can further injure the surrounding property and landscape,. "Do not drive through flooded areas, turn around and find another way," per the City of St. Augustine's announcement. Manhole covers, too, can become loose and present hazards during these tides. Inundated areas of concern include Lincolnville, Maria Sanchez Lake, and South Davis Shores among others—a complete list is provided on the city's alert.
To keep the city informed and responsive to the high-water issues, the public is encouraged to report any flooding or clogged storm drains. This can be done through the city’s online tool. It's a collaborative effort—the city acts, but citizens must provide the eye on the street. By reporting these incidents, the city can address them faster, keeping everyone a bit drier, and safer.
If past events serve as a reference, places like the San Sebastian River Bridge at US 1 and King St., Abbott Tract, and Fullerwood are likely to be affected. Notoriously, the bayfront seawall by Castillo de San Marcos, and certain stretches like Bridge Street, become submerged—posing significant challenges for residents and city services alike.
