Flood warning in Florida: Heavy rain and rising water

A flood warning remains in effect Wednesday for communities along the St. Johns River near Astor, as water levels remain above the official flood stage.

The National Weather Service in Melbourne said the warning affects parts of Lake and Volusia counties and will remain in effect until further notice.

At approximately 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, the river stood at 2.5 feet, while the official flood stage is 2.3 feet.

The river reached as high as 2.6 feet during the previous 24 hours, according to the National Weather Service.

What does the flooding mean for residents?

The flooding is classified as minor flooding, but officials say water is already affecting some low-lying properties.

When the river reaches approximately 2.3 feet, docks can become submerged, while water can enter yards in parts of the Astor community.

On the Lake County side, areas including Bartram Road, Holiday Circle and Wild Hog Road can experience water entering yards.

In Volusia County, water can reach the yards of homes along the river side of Alice Drive.

Officials have also established no-wake zones along a portion of the river.

The river is expected to remain above flood stage

The latest forecast does not indicate an immediate end to the flooding.

The National Weather Service expects the river to remain around 2.5 feet before gradually declining later this week.

However, the river is expected to remain above the 2.3-foot flood stage for some time.

Rain is adding to Florida’s weather concerns

The flooding comes during a particularly wet weather pattern across parts of Florida.

The Florida Division of Emergency Management says Wednesday is expected to bring another day of heat, humidity and rain chances across the state before a cold front brings cooler and drier conditions Thursday.

South Florida faces the highest rainfall chances, with 80–90% chances in parts of coastal Southeast Florida, and forecasters have identified a marginal risk of flash flooding in South Florida.

That means the flood concerns are not limited to the St. Johns River. Heavy downpours can also produce temporary flooding in areas with poor drainage, particularly in urban and low-lying locations.

Officials have a simple warning for drivers

The National Weather Service is urging motorists not to drive around barricades or attempt to drive through flooded areas.

Even relatively shallow water can be dangerous when its depth or current cannot be determined.

For people living near the St. Johns River, officials also recommend caution around riverbanks while water levels remain elevated.

The latest warning is a reminder that Florida’s flood threat doesn’t always come from a hurricane or tropical storm.

Sometimes, elevated river levels, tides and heavy rainfall are enough to put homes, roads and low-lying communities at risk.