District properties and offices close as Hurricane Idalia targets Florida’s west coast
St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director Mike Register and Asst. Executive Director Mary Ellen Winkler discuss Hurricane Idalia’s projected path during Emergency Operations Center meeting.
PALATKA, Fla., Aug. 29, 2023 — As Hurricane Idalia barrels toward the west coast, the St. Johns River Water Management District Emergency Operations Center is continuing preparations and will monitor the storm as it moves across the peninsula. The District’s Emergency Operations Center is currently activated at level 1.
St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director Mike Register and Asst. Executive Director Mary Ellen Winkler discuss Hurricane Idalia’s projected path during Emergency Operations Center meeting.
In anticipation of the storm’s arrival, the District will be closing headquarters in Palatka, along with service centers in Apopka and Jacksonville beginning Wednesday.
Here is a summary of the District’s current status of operations:
- Due to potential effects of Hurricane Idalia, navigation through the Burrell Lock, Moss Bluff Lock, and the Apopka Lock and Dam will be temporarily suspended at sunset Tuesday.
- District lands located in Alachua, Baker, Bradford, Clay, Duval, Flagler, Lake, Marion, Nassau, Putnam, Seminole, St. Johns, and Volusia counties will be closed beginning at noon Tuesday and remain closed until staff evaluate them for public safety.
- For a complete list of impacted properties, visit the District’s website at sjrwmd.com/meetings-announcements.
- The District’s pump strike team is standing by to offer recovery assistance to flooded communities.
Residents can visit the District’s website at www.sjrwmd.com/storm for information and links to flood statements and warnings, river stages, and local government emergency contacts.
For the most up-to-date information visit our District website at www.sjrwmd.com or follow us on social media.