The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) is actively responding to the rain and other initial impacts associated with Tropical Storm Eta. Executive Director Drew Bartlett provided a video update from the SFWMD Emergency Operations Center.
Proactive Actions by SFWMD to Reduce Potential Flooding:
- Lowered SFWMD canals based on forecasts;
- Staffed pump stations and control rooms to manage water;
- Coordinated with local governments and drainage districts;
- Adjusted flood protection gates and pumps in response to the forecast and rainfall;
- Prepared to use projects and infrastructure to store excess stormwater; and
- Closed Navigation Locks for public safety.
Tips for Residents:
- Monitor guidance from their county EOC.
- Know who to call to report flooding.
Flood control throughout South Florida relies on a primary system that SFWMD operates and secondary and tertiary systems operated by local governments and drainage districts. It is normal to see lakes temporarily rise and water flowing through streets to drains.
SFWMD's system is operating as designed for the storm's rainfall. SFWMD continues to encourage all local governments and local drainage operators to monitor the storm and coordinate with SFWMD as needed.
Residents throughout South Florida can find which local agency to contact about flooding concerns by visiting SFWMD.gov/FloodControl. Standing water and rising levels in lakes and ponds are normal during and after a storm. Continue to check SFWMD.gov, as well as SFWMD's Facebook and Twitter for the latest updates on operations by SFWMD.
Media Resources (Available for use and broadcast):