South prong of Black Creek at minor flood stage

CLAY COUNTY, Fla. – Clay County Emergency Management has notified News4Jax that the south prong of Black Creek is in minor flood stage.

The creek crested at 16.52 feet around 7 a.m. Sunday. Emergency Management says this 16.5 feet is just short of impacting homes along the south prong. Emergency Management  encourages people living in the area to closely monitor the situation. There is concern about more rain in the area over the next 24 hours.

The National Weather Service in Jacksonville has issued a minor flood warning for the south prong of Black Creek, which will continue until the creek falls below flood level. Boaters are encouraged to be mindful of creating any wakes in the areas of high water near homes. Unless absolutely necessary, avoid entering the water around the south prong due to rushing water and floating debris.

Rising waters will move wildlife from flooded habitat into adjacent residential and commercial areas where they may come into contact with residents. Officials urge citizens to minimize contact with animals while they seek temporary refuge from their flooded home range.

Emergency Management officials urge residents and businesses located along the south prong of Black Creek to stay alert to the water levels and to stay aware of any emergency notifications that may go out should conditions change, either through National Weather Service Alerts, through the media, or through the County's CodeRED emergency notification system. If you are located along Black Creek and have a question regarding this message, please call Clay County Emergency Management at 904-284-7703.