Florida Governor Ron DeSantis detailed plans to manage the week's severe flooding in Hollywood, Florida.
In Hollywood, Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis addressed the media on advancements in handling South Florida's severe flooding triggered by substantial rainfall from a tropical disturbance.
According to Local10 News, the press conference occurred Friday morning. It highlighted the urgency and response measures initiated to curb the destructive aftermath of the flooding that has affected large parts of Southwest Florida, particularly Hollywood and adjacent areas.
Kevin Guthrie of the Florida Division of Emergency Management, alongside Jared Perdue from the Florida Department of Transportation, joined Governor DeSantis, expressing their thoughts and strategies for flood management. Gov. DeSantis announced the operation of over one hundred pumps to evacuate water effectively from flooded zones.
City officials in Hollywood reported an overwhelming 20 inches of rainfall since the preceding Tuesday, exceeding typical precipitation levels and pushing the city’s infrastructure to its limits.
The substantial downfall ceased by Friday, with visible reductions in water levels that brought slight relief. This break allowed crews to begin more effectively managing the flood effects, which included towing numerous cars stranded by the heightened waters.
The Governor also acknowledged involvement from state departments like the Florida Department, which, in coordination with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, has been instrumental in communication and logistics during the flood crisis.
Local officials and emergency managers remain cautious, with the pending forecast threatening further rains. They have placed additional orders for pumps to combat potential increases in water levels should the weather conditions deteriorate anew.
Kevin Guthrie, during the session, advised residents to minimize road usage and be diligent in documenting any property damage. He emphasized the importance of safety, especially concerning floodwaters, which have posed health risks due to contamination:
Kevin Guthrie stated, “If your home has significant damage, do not enter the building if it is still flooded. Take pictures before any cleanup to ensure proper documentation for insurance claims. I urge residents to avoid flooded areas and ensure children are not playing in the water, which could be harmful.”
Officials stress the potential dangers of the floodwaters, alerting the public of the risk of contamination. The message has been clear: stay out of the floodwater when possible and proceed cautiously during cleanup and recovery.
Additional rain could exacerbate the conditions, but DeSantis reassured the public about the readiness of state emergency teams. He expressed confidence in the existing personnel and resources, stating, "South Florida has the staff and emergency response teams in place to handle it."
Governor DeSantis and his team's proactive and coordinated approach seeks to mitigate the immediate effects of the flooding and prepare for future challenges that may arise from ongoing rainfall. The state remains on alert, with resources directed toward safety, recovery, and communication with the community as they navigate this natural disaster.
