TS Debby ALERT: Closures, Evacuations, and Shelters

By: Eyewitness News Email

Updated: Fri 10:41 PM, Jun 29, 2012

Wakulla County, Florida -June 29, 2012

Wakulla County has partnered with Waste Pro to assist flood victims with disposing of household storm debris. Waste Pro will have dumpsters set up at Sopchoppy City Park on Monday, July 2nd - Friday, July 6th at 12:00 Noon-5:00 p.m. for flood victims only who need to dispose of their household debris resulting from Tropical Storm Debby. Waste Pro has agreed to this service at NO COST!! In addition, Waste Pro will continue to have the Lower Bridge Landfill open on Monday-Friday 8:00a.m.-5:00p.m., Saturday 8:00a.m.-3:00p.m., and Sunday 10:00a.m.-5:00p.m. at a fee of $75.00 per ton.

___________________________________

Tallahassee, Florida June 29,2012 - 10:20am -

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is providing an update on road and bridge closures and restrictions in Northwest Florida due to Tropical Storm Debby. All rail, airport, transit and seaport facilities are functioning as normal.

Franklin County

· Alligator Drive on Alligator Point is restricted due to water on the roadway.

Liberty County

· County Road (C.R. 67) from S.R. 65 in Telogia to the Liberty/Wakulla County line is closed due to water on the roadway.

Leon County

· Rhodes Cemetery Road closed.

· St. Joe Road at C.R. 2197/Williams Road is restricted due to water on the roadway.

Wakulla County

· C.R. 375/Smith Creek Road is closed at Syfrett Creek Bridge due to water on the roadway.

· State Road (S.R.) 30/US 98 in Panacea is restricted.

· Levy Bay Road from intersection to hotel is closed.

· Harms Road at intersection of S.R. 377 is closed.

· MLK Road/Lower Bridge Road from the intersection of Triplet Road to Tiger Hammock Road is closed.

· C.R. 372/Surf Road at Buckhorn Creek Bridge is closed.

· C.R. 22 over Sopchoppy River is closed.

· Donaldson Williams Road is restricted.

· Harvey Mill Road at Lawhorn Mill Road is closed.

· JK Moore Road is closed.

· Bostic Pelt Road is closed.

· Edgar Poole Road near Jack Crum Road is closed.

· Whiddon Lake Road at Jump Jump Creek is closed.

· Otter Lake Road at Westview is closed.

· Fairway Drive at U.S. 98 is restricted.

· Lonesome Road is closed.

· C.R. 372A/Otter Lake Road at Westview is closed

___________________

Tallahassee, Florida June 28,2012-4:40 pm

Managers of the Apalachicola National Forests have reopened some recreation areas that were closed due to potentially hazardous road conditions in the wake of Tropical Storm Debby.

The following recreation areas are currently open:

Silver Lake
Camel Lake
Trout Pond
Leon Sinks (except Gum Swamp Loops)
Wright Lake
Ft. Gadsden

Damage assessments of forest roads, bridges and culverts are currently being done. The condition of some of these areas is unknown and may be unsafe for driving or transiting. Public safety is a priority for the National Forests in Florida. Please proceed with caution when driving in and around the forest.

For more information related to conditions, closures and the reopening of forest roads and recreation sites, local residents and visitors should contact the Apalachicola National Forest Wakulla District Ranger Office at 850-926-3561.

___________________________________________

TALLAHASSEE – June 28, 2012 - 3:50pm -

Second Harvest will be opening a feeding station at Second harvest tomorrow between the hours of 10am and 1pm in the parking lot of Radical Restoration (1370 Coastal Highway). The Salvation Army continues to provide feeding at Sopchoppy City Hall.

___________________________________________

TALLAHASSEE – June 28, 2012 - 3:25pm -

JOINT PRELIMINARY DAMAGE ASSESSMENTS WILL SURVEY DAMAGE FROM TROPICAL STORM DEBBY

The State Emergency Response Team (SERT) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will begin joint preliminary damage assessments (PDA) on Friday to survey damage caused by Tropical Storm Debby. As of 5 p.m. Wednesday, Debby lost all tropical characteristics and river flooding remains the primary concern of emergency response efforts.

“Flooding events require long term coordination by emergency management agencies and the SERT will continue to respond to protect life safety and transition into long term recovery when appropriate,” said Governor Scott. “I’m confident in the capabilities of the state and local emergency management teams as well as our private and nonprofit partners to ensure Florida remains the best place to live, work and play.”

Ten Public Assistance and ten Individual Assistance teams composed of SERT and FEMA representatives are coordinating with local emergency management agencies on plans to assess damage in impacted communities. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will also deploy three beach specialty PDA teams to assess coastal damage. The purpose of preliminary damage assessments is to verify the severity of the impact and justify the need to pursue a request for federal assistance.

Individual Assistance PDAs are conducted in order to guide State response efforts, assess the need for federal assistance and estimate disaster impact to businesses, individuals and families. Individual Assistance PDA teams are deployed to disaster sites to evaluate damages specifically to homes and businesses. The determination to provide Individual Assistance is based upon several factors, including but not limited to, concentration and level of damages, trauma, special populations, lack of available voluntary agency assistance, underinsured or uninsured population and recent multiple disasters.

Preliminary Damage Assessments are initiated by county emergency management agencies. Individuals who have experienced disaster-related damage to homes or businesses should call the local county Emergency Management Office to receive disaster-related information and to document damages.

The objective of the FEMA's Public Assistance Grant Program is to provide assistance to state, tribal, local governments and certain types of private non-profit organizations so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies declared by the president. In Florida, the damage threshold for federal disaster relief assistance is more than $25 million.

Visit www.FloridaDisaster.org/recovery for details about the damage assessment process and types of assistance that may be available.

Due to the impacts of Tropical Storm Debby, Governor Rick Scott signed Executive Order 12-140, declaring a statewide state of emergency on Monday afternoon. The State Emergency Operations Center is operating at a Level One, full activation.

For additional information on response to and recovery from Tropical Storm Debby, call the Florida Emergency Information Line at 1-800-342-3557. The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 – November 30. To GET A PLAN! visit www.FloridaDisaster.org. For the latest information on the 2012 Hurricane Season, follow us on Twitter at www.Twitter.com/flsert and on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/FloridaSERT.

_________________

Progress Energy Florida crews are nearing completion of a new transmission line from Eastpoint to St. George Island that will restore power to the island. The company has updated the estimated repair time and power is now expected to be restored by 8 p.m. tonight. Severe weather conditions spawned by Tropical Storm Debby disrupted power to St. George Island. Progress Energy accelerated the new transmission line project to restore power in time for the 4th of July holiday.

RESTORATION OF POWER TO SAINT GEORGE ISLAND 2:00 PM JUNE 28, 2012

PROGRESS ENERGY HAS DETERMINED THAT RESTORATION OF POWER TO SAINT GEORGE ISLAND WILL BE COMPLETED BY 8:00 PM THURSDAY JUNE 28, 2012.

WITH THE INSTALLATION OF THESE NEW FACILITIES IN OUR AREA, THE RELIABILITY OF SERVICE HAS BEEN GREATLY IMPROVED FOR THE FUTURE.

_________________________

June 28, 2012 - Noon

Red Cross Deploys Emergency Response Vehicles

The Red Cross is deploying its Emergency Response vehicles filled with bulk distribution and Mass Care supplies to the flood affected area. They will be deploying within 30 minutes.

_______________________

Wakulla County Announces Information Resulting from Tropical Storm Debby

Crawfordville, FL – Tropical Storm Debby is gone but not without leaving the County with major flooding issues and storm debris. Wakulla County is in the process of assessing all damages to determine the needs for federal disaster assistance. In order to obtain accurate information Wakulla County Emergency Management requests any damages, regardless if they require assistance, to be reported by calling 745-7100. This information will be utilized in determining the needs for federal disaster and/or non-profit organization assistance.

Staff is providing the following information to assist the public with questions they may have resulting from Tropical Storm Debby:

Debris Removal: Can be taken to the Lower Bridge Landfill. The Landfill will temporarily be open Monday-Friday 8:00a.m.-5:00p.m. and Saturday-Sunday 8:00a.m.-3:00p.m. The cost is $75 per ton. Additionally, Waste Pro will pick up debris (in excess of 2 cubic yards) for a fee of $25 per cubic yard. You will need to call Waste Pro at 926-7010 to request this service.
Flooding – The Sheriff’s Office Emergency Management asks residents who have experienced flooding on their property to call the Sheriff’s Office at 745-7100 so that the flooding can be documented in the case that public assistance becomes available.
Downed Trees – Trees on County property can be removed by contacting Public Works at 926-7616.
Sink Holes – If endangering home or is a safety concern, please contact the Sheriff’s Office at 745-7100. If the sink hole is on County property, please contact Public Works at 926-7616.
Road Signs – If your road/street sign is missing, please contact Public Works at 926-7616.
Shelters & Needs – The American Red Cross has opened a shelter at the Crawfordville Elementary School, 379 Arran Rd., and will be distributing snacks, bottled water, and clean-up kits throughout the Community.
Volunteers – The American Red Cross is in need of volunteers at the Crawfordville Elementary Shelter and throughout the County. For information, please contact Katie Sherk, Director of Emergency Services at 878-6080.

If you have any questions related to this story, please contact Jessica Welch, Public Information Office at (850) 926-0919 ext. 407.

_______________________

Second Harvest Has an Immediate Need for Food and Cleaning Supplies to Support Disaster Relief Operations Throughout North Florida

What: America’s Second Harvest has an immediate need for ready-to-eat canned items such as tuna, chicken, salmon, beans, potted meats…etc. Also needed are nutrition/energy bars and canned vegetables along with cleaning supplies such as bleach, mops, brooms and gloves.

WHY: Thousands of families throughout North Florida have been affected by flooding from Tropical Storm Debby and are now in need of food assistance and cleaning supplies as they begin the cleanup process. Second Harvest is quickly depleting our supply of the items mentioned above as we respond to the affected areas. Second Harvest provides both immediate assistance in coordination with EOC officials in each county and long term food assistance as residents begin the long recovery process.

WHEN: Immediately

Where: Donations of food and cleaning supplies can be dropped off at the Second Harvest warehouse located at 110 Four Points Way or at any of food drop off locations around town. A full list of these locations can be found online at www.fightinghunger.org

Cash donations can be made on our website at www.fightinghunger.org by designating the donation to disaster relief. Donations will be used to purchase the much needed food items and cleaning supplies.

_____________________________

Tropical Storm Debby Road Advisory Update – Number 7
- June 28, 2012 10:20am

FDOT: Interstate 10 is now reopened for both East and West bound traffic.

Franklin County

· The St. George Island Bridge/State Road (S.R.) 300 is open from Eastpoint to St. George Island. An 8 p.m. curfew is in effect.

· County Road (C.R.) 67 is closed at the Pine Log Creek (Crooked River) Bridge due to flooding.

· Lake Morality Road from C.R. 67 to U.S. 98 is closed.

· C.R. 67 from S.R. 30/U.S. 98 to Wakulla/Liberty County line.

· Alligator Drive on Alligator Point is closed.

Liberty County

· C.R. 67 from S.R. 65 in Telogia to the Liberty/Wakulla County line is closed due to water on the roadway.

Leon County

· Amherst Street at Amartta Drive is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· Rhodes Cemetery Road closed.

· S.R. 61 at Wild Cherry Drive closed.

· S.R. 363 at Robinson Road is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· 10865 Tram Road/C.R. 259 is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· Hickory Lane at S.R. 363 restricted due to water on the roadway.

· J.B. Clark-- Apalachicola Natural Forrest is restricted.

Wakulla County

· C.R. 375/Smith Creek Road is closed at Syfrett Creek Bridge due to water on the roadway.

· S.R. 30/U.S. 98 at C.R. 375 in Panacea is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· Southbound S.R. 377 at U.S. 319/S.R. 375/Sopchoppy Highway is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· Levy Bay Road from intersection to hotel is closed.

· Harms Road at intersection of S.R. 377 is closed.

· MLK Road/Lower Bridge Road from the intersection of Triplet Road to Tiger Hammock Road is closed.

· C.R. 372/Surf Road at Buckhorn Creek Bridge is closed.

· C.R. 22 over Sopchoppy River is closed.

· Donaldson Williams Road is restricted.

· Harvey Mill Road at Lawhorn Mill Road is closed.

· JK Moore Road is closed.

· Bostic Pelt Road is closed.

· Edgar Poole Road Near Jack Crum Road is closed.

· Whiddon Lake Road at Jump Jump Creek is closed.

· Otter Lake Road at Westview is closed.

__________________________________

Red Cross In Need Of Volunteers And Bottled Water

June 28, 2012 - 10:15am

As the Red Cross begins damage assessment, bulk supplies distribution, and Mass Care, we are in need of general volunteers that can help and work along side of trained Red Cross disaster volunteers. Anyone interested in volunteering should call the main number at 850-878-6080.

Red Cross has also nearly depleted its inventory of bottled water. We are in need of bulk bottled water that can be shipped on pallets to our chapter warehouse on Easterwood Drive. If any business can help, please call Dan Samborn, CEO at 850-402-5611.

“It has been wonderful to see our business community help during this disaster with donated items and services for people in need. This generosity of helping neighbors during their time of crisis defines our local region”, said Dan Samborn, CEO for the American Red Cross Capital Area Chapter.

People can help those affected by Tropical Storm Debby by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Consider making a donation today by visiting www.redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or texting the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. The Capital Area Chapter is accepting donations on their website: www.tallyredcross.org. Contributions may also be sent to your local Red Cross chapter, 1115 Easterwood Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32311. Contributions enable the Red Cross to prepare for and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance in response to disasters.

_____________________________

LAKE CITY, Fla. (AP) - June 28, 2012 - 9am -

The Florida Highway Patrol has reopened westbound lanes of Interstate 10 between Baker and Columbia counties in north Florida.

But the agency says eastbound lanes remained closed Thursday morning due to flooding caused by torrential rainfall from Tropical Storm Debby.

Parts of the main east-west route through north Florida were closed by troopers earlier in the week when water covered parts of both sides of the highway.

State emergency officials say flood warnings are still in effect for several north and west-central Florida rivers and about a half-dozen counties. Parts of the Upper Suwannee and Upper Santa Fe rivers are expected to crest between Friday and Saturday, and some areas will face possible flooding into next week.

_________________

June 28, 2012

The Suwannee County courthouse will be closed today. A sinkhole was found in the parking lot

___________________________

June 27,2012- 11:30 pm

Interstate 10 in Baker County from the 296 mile marker to the 324 mile marker is still closed and will remain so, at the least, throughout the nighttime hours.
_________________________________________

June 27, 2012- 11:00 pm

Courthouses in Columbia and Suwannee Counties will be open tomorrow.
______________________________________________

June 27,2012-10:55 pm

S.R. 26, between Serena Lake Drive and S.R. 100 in Putnam County, Florida has been reopened after a sink hole began encroaching on the westbound travel lane. The sinkhole has been filled by DOT, and the area of concern will be monitored by in the near future for its stability.
______________________________________________

June 27, 2012-8:15 pm

Areas in six counties are under a boil water notice:

Franklin- Alligator point
Hillsborough- River Oaks Resort RV Park
Jackson – Town of Sneads
Marion- subdivision of Ocklawaha, victory mobile home park
Pasco- Encore North RV Park
Sumter- The Woods subdivision
_______________________________________________

June 27,2012-7:55 pm

A Private Sector Hotline for members of the private sector has been set up throughout the state to report damage, losses, closings, impediments to reopening or any other issues of concern.

The hotline number is (850) 410-1403 between 8a.m. and 7p.m. daily until further notice. You may also email information to EOC-ESF18@em.myflorida.com.

For those Private Sector partners calling in, please be prepared to give your physical location (county included), phone or email contact information and any issues you are having; if reporting losses of income due to the storm please give your best estimate for the time period of last Sunday (6/24) through next Saturday(6/30). We will maintain this information and share with our county partners as well. Also feel free to call with any questions. If the answer is unavailable when the call is taken, leave your number or email address and the call will be returned.

_____________________________________________

June 27, 2012- 7:45pm

The following State Parks and Trails are closed:
St George Island State Park
Ochlockonee River State Park
Suwannee River Wilderness Trail
Big Shoals State Park
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park
Troy Springs State Park
Nature and Heritage Tourism Center
Madison Blue Spring
South Skyway Fishing Pier
Egmont Key

Partial closure:
Cayo Costa State Park
Bald Point State Park
Manatee Springs State Park
Lafayette Blue Spring State Park
O’leno State Park
River Rise Preserve State Park
Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park
Myakka River State Park
Anclote Key Preserve State Park

The Atlantic Hurricane Season runs from June 1 – November 30. To GET A PLAN! visit www.FloridaDisaster.org. For the latest information on the 2012 Hurricane Season, www.Twitter.com/flsert and on Facebook, www.Facebook.com/FloridaSERT.
______________________________________________

June 27, 2012- 7:30 pm

Debby lost tropical characteristics Wednesday afternoon and as of 5pm Wednesday, Debby was located about 180 miles east of St. Augustine, Florida.

Maximum sustained winds are at 40 mph and little change in strength is expected during the next few days.

Post-Tropical Storm Debby is now moving toward the east at 13 mph and this general motion with an increase in forward speed is expected over the next couple of days and Debby is forecast to stay well off the U.S. coastline as it races into the open Atlantic.

As of 3 p.m., more than 5,468 customers are without power in 17 counties. There are 14 shelters open in Baker, Bradford, Clay, Columbia, Hernando, Leon, Nassau, Pasco, Pinellas, Suwannee and Wakulla counties, including three special needs shelters, one in Pasco County and one in Baker County and one in Nassau County. Four deaths have been confirmed as a result of the storm in Pinellas, Highlands, Polk and Lake counties.

13 shelters are open in Baker, Bradford, Columbia, Hernando, Nassau, Pasco, Pinellas, Suwannee and Wakulla counties, including three special needs shelters, one in Pasco County and one in Baker County and one in Nassau County. Visit Floridaevacuates.com for shelter nearest you and driving directions. For the most up-to-date list of open shelters please visit the following website:
http://floridadisaster.org/shelters/summary.htm

Flood Warnings are still in effect for several North Florida and West Central Florida rivers, as well as land areas in eastern Franklin, Wakulla, southwestern Jefferson, southeastern Liberty, northern Dixie, Lafayette, and Taylor Counties. The St. Mary's River reached 24.28 feet and broke the previous record of 23.2 feet and Black Creek crested just below the record level at 25.11 feet. The St. Marks, Sopchoppy, Anclote, Little Manatee River and upper Suwannee River at White Springs crested this afternoon, while the rest of the Upper Suwannee River and Upper Santa Fe Rivers are forecast to crest in major flood stage between Friday and Sunday. The Santa Fe River will be slower to recede and many areas will stay in major or moderate flood stage through next week.

Sandbags are being distributed by Taylor, Franklin, Leon, Pasco and Nassau counties. Check with the county emergency management agency for details.

Road Closures: Bridge closures- County Road 314-Sharpes Ferry Bridge in Marion County; County Road 22 Bridge in Wakulla County; County Road 375 Bridge in Wakulla County; US 301 Brandy Branch Bridge in Nassau County. Up to date road closures are available at www.floridadisaster.org.

Railroad: CSX has suspended operating traffic between Pensacola and Jacksonville

For more information contact: Public Information (ESF 14), (850) 921-0217 or www.FloridaDisaster.org
__________________________________________________

June 27,2012 -6:15pm-

Red Cross has begun damage assessment to provide disaster client casework to residents who suffered major damage to their dwellings.

Red Cross also received a semi-truck shipment today of bulk items and Clean Up Kits to begin disbursement in the affected counties.

The Crawfordville Elementary School will remain open throughout the evening giving local residents a dry place to stay. Mass care feeding will also continue at the shelter along with emotional care if needed.

People can help those affected by Tropical Storm Debby by making a donation to support American Red Cross Disaster Relief. Visit www.redcross.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation. The Capital Area Chapter is accepting donations on their website: www.tallyredcross.org.

Contributions may also be sent to your local Red Cross chapter, 1115 Easterwood Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32311. Contributions enable the Red Cross to prepare for and provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance in response to disasters.
_________________________________________

June 27,2012 -5:25pm-

In Franklin County, the storm took out three power poles carrying the line that supplies electricity to St. George Island. Crews are working to restore power by expediting the final stage of a multi-year transmission line replacement project. Expediting the new line project will result in a quicker repair than replacing the damaged power poles crossing St. George Sound. The company hopes to have the new line energized by the end of the day Friday. Under the original plan, electric service was to be switched to the upgraded, storm-hardened line on July 9. The company has replaced more than 38 miles of high-voltage transmission lines running from Port St. Joe to Eastpoint and out to St. George Island to improve service and strengthen the line against storms. (NOTE: A photo of today’s helicopter work on this line is available by request.)

Customers still without power should report their individual outage by calling 1.800.228.8485. Using the company’s automated reporting system ensures each outage is captured in the restoration plan and will allow Progress Energy to provide restoration time estimates and updates to individual customers.

For more restoration and safety information, visit www.progress-energy.com/storm or follow Progress Energy Florida on Facebook and Twitter.
_____________________________________

June 27,2012 -5:15 pm-

Crawfordville: If your private well has been covered with flood water, or if flood water has come up to your well casing because of Tropical Storm Debby, the Wakulla County Health Department advises you to take precautions against contaminated water. Your water may contain disease-causing organisms and may not be safe to drink.

The Wakulla County Health Department recommends you take one of the following actions:

· Boil water before use, holding it at a rolling boil for at least one minute before using it for drinking, washing, cooking, etc.; or

· Disinfect water by adding 8 drops (about 1/8 tsp – this would form a puddle about the size of a dime) of plain unscented household bleach (4 to 6%) per gallon of water, and then let it stand for 30 minutes. If the water is cloudy after 30 minutes, repeat the procedure. Use a container that has a cap or cover for disinfecting and storing water to be used for drinking. This will prevent contamination; or

· Use bottled water, especially for mixing baby formula.

After the flooding subsides:

· Disinfect your well using the procedures available from the Wakulla County Health Department or provided on the Department of Health’s website at http://www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/water/manual/floodinf.htm; and

· After you have disinfected your well, have your water tested by the Wakulla County Health Department or by a laboratory certified by the State to perform a drinking water analysis for coliform bacteria.

For further information, please call the Wakulla County Health Department Environmental Health Division, at 850-926-0400, or visit www.doh.state.fl.us or www.FloridaDisaster.org.

____________________________________________

June 27,2012 -5:15 pm-

The Salvation Army is in Sopchoppy and will be feeding flooding victims of Tropical Storm Debby at Sopchoppy City Hall until 8pm. Wednesday, June 27.

___________________________________________

June 27, 2012- 5:00pm-

Rehwinkel Road in Crawfordville, Florida has been CLOSED due to deep water crossing the road near Anderson's wood shop. This flooding first occurred overnight Tuesday. Please take an alternate route.

__________________________________________________

STATE LICENSING AGENCY ISSUES CONSUMER ADVISORY IN WAKE OF TROPICAL STORM DEBBY

June 27, 2012 -12:30pm -

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) today urged consumers to hire only licensed professionals as clean-up begins in the wake of Tropical Storm Debby. Flooding has impacted many counties and at least 10 counties have been affected by tornado activity brought by the storm. DBPR also encouraged consumers who suspect someone is performing unlicensed activity to post or tweet pictures to the Department’s social media channels, enabling inspectors to gather information from areas that may have limited accessibility.

“These storms are dangerous, often unpredictable and usually leave wide paths of destruction as they pass through the state,” said Secretary Ken Lawson. “Floridians can prioritize their safety by preparing in advance and can protect themselves from post-storm scams and unlicensed activity by checking licenses.”

During a declared state of emergency, unlicensed activity typically increases as scam artists prey on desperate situations. Unlicensed activity during a declared state of emergency is a criminal offense and may be punishable by fines or even prison if convicted.

The following tips may help consumers better identify unlicensed activity:

Always ask to see the state of Florida license.
Note the license number and verify that the license is current and in good standing. To check a license, call 850-487-1395, visit www.MyFloridaLicense.com or download the DBPR iPhone or Andriod mobile app.
Ask for references and check each one.
Avoid paying cash and be cautious of writing checks made payable to individuals, especially when dealing with a company.
Get everything in writing, including a detailed description of the work to be completed, a completion date and the total cost.

__________________________

Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office
TROPICAL STORM DEBBY UPDATE 6-27-12

The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office Division of Emergency Management geared down from full Emergency Operations Center (EOC) activation to a partial activation Wednesday, June 27 as calls for rescues dwindled following Tropical Storm Debby. T.S. Debby began dropping rain on Wakulla County on Sunday, June 24 and the rains finally ceased during the day on Tuesday, June 26. The rainfall was estimated at 30 inches.

Flood waters are beginning to appear on county roadways in new places where sinkholes are full or wooded areas can no longer contain the water. Sinkhole “ponding” is forcing flood water to run backwards and waters from Lost Creek, Swirl Sink and Lost Creek Sink south of Crawfordville have pushed water back toward Gulf Coast Lumber which is now threatened with flooding.

Flatwoods draining has created a new hazard on Rehwinkel Road where overnight a section of the road that was completely dry Tuesday night flooded early Wednesday. Residents should be prepared for the potential of water overflowing sinkholes if they have sinks near or on their property as well as draining of saturated wooded areas.

WCSO Emergency Management is asking residents who have experienced flooding on their property to contact the sheriff’s office at 745-7100 so that the flooding can be documented. Residents should contact their insurance company as well. There is no public assistance available yet but the WCSO wants to document the damage in the event that public assistance becomes available.

The Army National Guard was released from duty today along with the FWC. The FWC conducted more than 20 rescues and the National Guard ran one mission to check on residents of the upper St. Marks River area and Old Magnolia Road.

Law enforcement, the Department of Health and the Department of Transportation representatives are still working in the EOC until further notice.

The Sopchoppy River is beginning to go down although not at as quick a pace as it has after other flood events. U.S. Highway 319 from Medart to Sopchoppy has reopened to traffic although there are still spots where water is on the highway. Flood waters did not reach the top the Sopchoppy River Bridge. But lateral water pressure on the bridge will require inspections to be completed as soon as possible.

The St. Marks River is at a moderate flood level. Residents in the area declined assistance from the National Guard when the assistance team came through the area.

One Wakulla Firefighter received medical treatment for dehydration, but no other injuries have been reported.

St. Marks businesses reported water inside structures as did the Stop N Save at U.S. Highway 98 and Spring Creek Highway. Mike’s Paint and Body in Medart suffered structural damage from being hit by a tree during the early stages of the storm.

The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center received 2,642 calls from noon Sunday to 5 a.m. today. A normal week call load for the dispatch unit averages 1,730 calls.

The primary ongoing concern is flooding along waterways (creeks and rivers). However, all of the major waterways (Sopchoppy and St. Marks Rivers) have crested and will begin to fall slowly through the weekend. Lost Creek appears to be slowly rising on the south end. Swirl Sink and Lost Creek Sinks appear to be overflowing.

Road Closures:

Current road closures due to flooding, damage, and/or bridge damage:

- Smith Creek Rd @Syfrette Creek Bridge
- Harms Road
- U.S. Highway 98 in Panacea (1 lane only)
- Harvey Mill Road / Lawhon Mill Road

- Whiddon Lake Road @ Jump Creek

- J.K. Moore Road @ end of pavement

- Donaldson Williams Road

- Surf Road @ Buckhorn Creek
- Bostic Pelt Road

- Edgar Poole Road near Jack Crum Rd

- Lonesome Road

- Forest Road 13 @ end of pavement

- (NOW OPEN) U.S. Highway 319 between Medart and Sopchoppy (partially covered with water but open)

- The transition to recovery activities, including human services and damage assessment begins today.

- There are no current mandatory evacuations or restricted travel orders in effect. As long as the roadway is clear, it is open for public access.

- Approximately 75 residences have been impacted to some degree to date: 2 due to trees falling on the structure, the remainder due to flooding.

- Residents are encouraged to contact the Wakulla County Emergency Management to report any damages, regardless if they require assistance. This information will be utilized in determining the needs for federal disaster and/or non-profit organization assistance.

Agencies involved in Tropical Storm Debby emergency response:

A. Wakulla County Administration:

§ Emergency Declaration has been signed.

§ Assisting with Damage Assessment in Sopchoppy.

B. Wakulla County Schools:
§ Summer school reopened Wednesday after two days of closures.

C. Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office, Division of Emergency Management:
Right-sizing emergency response assets
Distribution of state-provided bottled water and shelf-stable meals.
Participating in coordination conference calls with the State Division of Emergency Management county agencies, city agencies, and supporting non-governmental entities
Assessing damage countywide
EOC is online and currently activated to a level 1
Coordinating resources
Coordinating Damage Assessment
Developing recovery objectives and priorities, including potential requests for federal/state damage assessment and human services.

D. Wakulla Public Works Office:
§ Tree removal

§ Road repairs

§ Sinkholes

E. Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office:

§ Filling additional sand bags

§ Assisting with rescue and maintaining traffic control points

§ Providing saw crews

F. Wakulla Agricultural Extension Service:

§ On standby

G. Wakulla County Department of Health:

§ Monitoring special needs

§ Monitoring environmental health needs (disease control, mosquitoes)

H. Wakulla County Fire Department
§ Back to normal operations

§ Staffing EOC

I. Wakulla EMS

§ Planning and right-sizing for road closures (e.g. alternate response routes)

J. Florida Highway Patrol

§ Maintaining traffic control points.

§ Right-sizing staffing today.

K. Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission

§ Providing swift water rescue.

§ Right-sizing staffing today.

L. Florida Department of Law Enforcement

§ Liaison in EOC

M. Red Cross

§ Managing Shelter Operations at Crawfordville Elementary (Current population: 5)

§ Begin bulk distribution of meals and clean-up kits

§ Conducting client needs assessment

N. Florida Division of Emergency Management

§ SERT Liaison (FDEM Region 2 Coordinator) in EOC.

§ 22 pallets of bottled water received.

§ 22 pallets of meals received.

O. Florida Department of Transportation

§ Liaison in EOC

§ Monitoring state road conditions.

§ Standing by to conduct structural inspections on two bridges over the Sopchoppy River (Smith Creek Road, CR-22).

§ Standing by to develop a temporary bridge plan for Sopchoppy should inspections deem aforementioned bridges damaged.

P. Florida National Guard

§ High-wheeled vehicle support for damage assessment and rescue

Q. Progress Energy

§ Current Outages: 524

§ Crews conducting repairs where possible. Some flooded properties cannot be repaired until water recedes

R. Talquin Electric Cooperative

§ Current Outages: 0 members

§ Response operations complete

S. Florida State University

§ Emergency Manager assisting with EOC operations

Response Statistics (storm total to date):

- Impacted residences: Approximately 75, of varying degrees.
- Impacted businesses: 1 major damage.

- Shelter population: Current 5, Peak 21.

- 17 water rescues, 67 people rescued.

- 126 responses for trees down.

- 86 responses for power lines down.

- 42 traffic control points for flooded roadways.

State of Florida Status:

The State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) is currently at a level 1 full activation. Governor’s Executive Order #12-140 declaring a State of Emergency is in effect.

_______________________

Tropical Storm Debby Road Advisory Update – Number 6

June 27, 2012 - 10am

Franklin County

· The St. George Island Bridge/State Road (S.R.) 300 is open from Eastpoint to St. George Island. An 8 p.m. curfew is in effect.

· County Road (C.R.) 67 is closed at the Pine Log Creek (Crooked River) Bridge due to flooding.

· Lake Morality Road from C.R. 67 to U.S. 98 is closed.

· C.R. 67 from S.R. 30/U.S. 98 to Wakulla/Liberty County line.

Liberty County

· C.R. 67 from S.R. 65 in Telogia to the Liberty/Wakulla County line is closed due to water on the roadway.

Leon County

· Amherst Street at Amartta Drive is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· Rhodes Cemetery Road closed.

· St. Joe Road at C.R. 2197/Williams Road is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· S.R. 61 at Wild Cherry Drive closed.

· S.R. 363 at Robinson Road is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· 10865 Tram Road/C.R. 259 is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· Hickory Lane at S.R. 363 restricted due to water on the roadway.

· J.B. Clark-- Apalachicola Natural Forrest is restricted.

Wakulla County

· C.R. 375/Smith Creek Road is closed at Syfrett Creek Bridge due to water on the roadway.

· U.S. 319 from Sopchoppy to Medart closed due to water on the roadway.

· Summer Brooke Lane closed.

· S.R. 30/U.S. 98 at C.R. 375 in Panacea is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· Southbound S.R. 377 at U.S. 319/S.R. 375/Sopchoppy Highway is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· S.R. 30/U.S. 98 from Wakulla River to Shell Point is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· Levy Bay Road from intersection to hotel is closed.

· Harms Road at intersection of S.R. 377 is closed.

· MLK Road/Lower Bridge Road from the intersection of Triplet Road to Tiger Hammock Road is closed.

· C.R. 372/Surf Road at Buckhorn Creek Bridge is closed.

· C.R. 22 over Sopchoppy River is closed.

_________________________

Leon County, Florida - June 27, 2012 - 9:02am -

Leon County Shelter at Woodville Community Center Closed

Officials encourage use of Leon County’s Emergency Information Portal and Emergency Alerts

The Capital Area Chapter of the American Red Cross has announced the closure of the shelter at the Woodville Community Center, 8000 Old Woodville Road. There was no occupancy this evening.
Leon County Emergency Management and the Red Cross will continue to assess the need to reopen the shelter in the morning and throughout the day on Wednesday.

FLORIDA EMERGENCY INFORMATION LINE ACTIVATED IN RESPONSE TO TROPICAL DEPRESSION DEBBY

TALLAHASSEE – Due to the continued impacts from Debby, downgraded to a tropical depression, the State Emergency Response Team has activated the Florida Emergency Information Line (FEIL), a hotline for residents to obtain accurate, up-to-date information about Debby. The FEIL will be available from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m.

The toll-free number is 1-800-342-3557. Hearing-impaired persons may call the Florida Telecommunications Relay at 1-800-226-4329 to receive information and access TDD systems.

The State Emergency Operations Center is operating at a Level One, full activation, to support the needs of the impacted counties. For more information about the storm’s impact on your area, contact your local emergency management agency.

_____________________________________

Leon County, Florida -June 26,2012

The Capital Area Chapter of the American Red Cross will open a shelter at 7 p.m. today at the Woodville Community Center, 8000 Old Woodville Road. The Woodville Community Center is designated as a pet-friendly shelter for this event only. Pet owners should bring veterinarian records as well as food and medicine or other essential items needed to care for their pets.

Those choosing to evacuate to the shelter should bring prescription medications, copies of important documents, blankets, baby items, and other vital supplies. Please keep in mind the shelter may be
crowded, therefore, do not bring any unnecessary items.
This shelter will remain open as needed.

Official updates can be found on the Leon County Emergency Information Portal (EIP) at www.LeonCountyFL.gov/ei/ . Leon County Emergency Management is advising that residents should monitor the latest forecasts and be prepared to take the necessary precautions to protect life and property. Drivers should use caution and adhere to any official signage. The National Weather
Service also warns that residents should not drive cars through flooded areas and that if they see flood waters to turn around and find another route. Residents are also encouraged not to attempt to
walk through floodwaters. Any and all flood water should be considered to be contaminated. Do not allow children or pets to play in, wade through or swim in flood water.

Residents requiring more information or assistance should call Leon County Emergency Management at (850) 488-5921. Families are also encouraged to have an emergency preparedness plan.

For assistance with planning, log on to www.HaveAHurricanePlan.com . Additionally, residents can sign up for emergency alerts at the Leon County website at www.LeonCountyFL.gov. For more information, please visit the Capital Area Chapter of the American Red Cross website at www.tallyredcross.org , call the Red Cross at (850) 878-6080, or call the Leon County Emergency Operations Center at (850) 488-5921.

____________________________________

June 26, 2012- 7 pm

Columbia County Courthouse and Suwannee County Courthouse will both be closed tomorrow.

All County Courthouses in the Second Judicial Circuit of Florida (Franklin, Gadsden, Jefferson, Leon, Liberty, and Wakulla Counties) will be open tomorrow, Wednesday, 27 June 2012.
_______________________________________________

June 26, 2012- 7 pm

Road Closure Updates:

Franklin County

-The St. George Island Bridge/State Road (S.R.) 300 is closed from Eastpoint to St. George Island due to the evacuation of St. George Island.

-County Road (C.R.) 67 is closed at the Pine Log Creek (Crooked River) Bridge due to flooding.

-Lake Morality Road from C.R. 67 to U.S. 98 is closed.

Liberty County

-S.R. 67 from S.R. 65 in Telogia to the Liberty/Wakulla County line is closed due to water on the roadway.

Leon County

-C.R. 155 (Meridian Road) restricted at the Thomas Circle intersection in Tallahassee due to flooding issues.

-S.R. 363/C.R. 2192/Natural Bridge Road/Old Woodville Highway is closed due to water on the roadway.

- Amherst Street at Amartta Drive closed.

- Rhodes Cemetery Road closed.

- S.R. 61 at Wild Cherry Drive closed.

- S.R. 363 at Robinson Road closed.

- 10865 Tram Road/C.R. 259 closed.

- Hickory Lane at S.R. 363 restricted due to water on the roadway.

Wakulla County

- C.R. 375/Smith Creek Road is closed at Syfrett Creek Bridge due to water on the roadway.

- U.S. 319 from Sopchoppy to Medart closed due to water on the roadway.

- Summer Brooke Lane closed.

- Northbound U.S. 319/S.R. 375/Sopchoppy Highway at the Sopchoppy River Bridge is restricted due to water on the roadway.

- S.R. 30/U.S. 98 at C.R. 375 in Panacea is restricted due to water on the roadway.

-Southbound S.R. 377 at U.S. 319/S.R. 375/Sopchoppy Highway is restricted due to water on the roadway.

-S.R. 30/U.S. 98 at Jer-be-lou Boulevard intersection is restricted due to water on the roadway.

-S.R. 30/U.S. 98 from Wakulla River to Shell Point is restricted due to water on the roadway.

- C.R. 372A/Otter Lake Road in Panacea at intersection of S.R. 30/U.S. 98 is closed.

- Curtis Mills Road at Sanders Cemetery from C.R. 22 to C.R. 375 is closed.

-C.R. 373/Spring Hill Road at S.R. 267/Bloxham Cutoff Road is closed.

-Spring Creek Road is closed.

-Otter Lake Road is closed.

-Summer Street in Sopchoppy at intersection S.R. 377 is closed.

-Levy Bay Road from intersection to hotel is closed.

-S.R. 363/Woodville Highway at Cherry Lane is restricted due to water on the roadway.

-Harms Road at intersection of S.R. 377 is closed.

-Webster Road from Lower Bridge Road to Rehwinkel Road is closed.

-Inez Lane from Lower Bridge Road to Liberty Road is closed.

-MLK Road/Lower Bridge Road from the intersection of Triplet Road to Tiger Hammock Road is closed.

__________________________________

June 26,2012 -5:30 pm

Leon County Shelter at Florida State University High School has closed.

The Capital Area Chapter of the American Red Cross has announced that the shelter at Florida State University High School (Florida High) has closed. There was no occupancy during Tropical Storm Debby. The Leon County Division of Emergency Management and the Red Cross will continue to assess the need to re-open a shelter throughout the day.

Official updates can be found on the Leon County Emergency Information Portal (EIP) at www.LeonCountyFL.gov/ei/ . Leon County Emergency Management is advising that residents should monitor the latest forecasts and be prepared to take the necessary precautions to protect life and property. Drivers should use caution and adhere to any official signage. The National Weather Service also warns that residents should not drive cars through flooded areas and that if they see flood waters to turn around and find another route. Residents are also encouraged not to attempt to walk through floodwaters. Any and all flood water should be considered to be contaminated. Do not allow children or pets to play in, wade through or swim in flood water.

Residents requiring more information or assistance should call Leon County Emergency Management at (850) 488-5921. Families are also encouraged to have an emergency preparedness plan. For assistance with planning, log on to www.HaveAHurricanePlan.com . Additionally, residents can sign up for emergency alerts at the Leon County website at www.LeonCountyFL.gov .

For more information, please visit the Capital Area Chapter of the American Red Cross website at www.tallyredcross.org, call the Red Cross at (850) 878-6080, or call the Leon County Emergency Operations Center at (850) 488-5921.

______________________________________________

June 26, 2012- 4:40 p.m.

Franklin County Board of County Commissioners has issued an EVACUATION NOTICE for: Residents living along the New River, Crooked River and Carrabelle River.

With the amount of rainfall from Tropical Storm Debby; we have been advised that the water from the creeks and streams will be draining into our rivers. Because of this fact the National Weather Service has no way of monitoring just how quickly the water will be rising or exactly how much we might expect is the reason for this evacuation. Just because you do not have flooding now it is coming. Please take all necessary precautions!

Red Cross Shelters currently open:
Crawfordville Elementary
379 Arran Rd.
Crawfordville Florida

1st Baptist Church
9500 Woodville Hwy.
Woodville, Florida

Taylor County Elementary
1600 E. Green St.
Perry, Florida

Red Cross Shelters on Stand-by:
Tolar Elementary (Stand-by)
14757 NW County Rd. 12
Bristol, Florida

Please use Hwy. 98 through Panacea or Highway 65
If you feel you need help evacuating at this time because you already have flooding issues call 911.

There are sandbags located at the old field house next to the Carrabelle City Municipal Complex.

_________________________________________

June 26, 2012, 2:30 p.m.

TRAFFIC ALERT

According to the Florida Department of Transportation, the I-10 eastbound outside lane is closed in Madison County, 200 yards east of the weigh station, due to a sinkhole.

Jefferson County Schools

Bill Brumfield, superintendent with Jefferson County Schools, says that schools and after school programs will be open on Wednesday, June 27th.

Jefferson County Road Closures

Tyson Road
Lower Cody Road
Middle Cody Road
Upper Cody Road
Fishburn Road
Curtis Mill Road
Water Mill Road
Walker Springs Road

Hell State Forest

Due to excessive rains and flooding brought by Tropical Storm Debby Tates, Hell State Forest in Carrabelle has been closed through Friday June 29th. Roads normally used as bypasses in previous storms are currently underwater. An assessment will be done later this week to re-open or partially re-open the Forest.

___________________________

June 26, 2012, 2:30 p.m.

Precautionary Boil Water Notice for Private Well Owners:

IF YOUR PRIVATE WELL HAS BEEN CONTAMINATED,
HOW TO MAKE YOUR WATER SAFE TO DRINK

TALLAHASSEE – If your private well has been covered with flood water, or if flood water has come up to your well casing because of Tropical Storm Debby, the Leon County Health Department advises you to take precautions against contaminated water. Your water may contain disease-causing organisms and may not be safe to drink.

The Leon County Health Department recommends you take one of the following actions:

• Boil water before use, holding it at a rolling boil for at least one minute before using it for drinking, washing, cooking, etc.; or

• Disinfect water by adding 8 drops (about 1/8 tsp – this would form a puddle about the size of a dime) of plain unscented household bleach (4 to 6%) per gallon of water, and then let it stand for 30 minutes. If the water is cloudy after 30 minutes, repeat the procedure. Use a container that has a cap or cover for disinfecting and storing water to be used for drinking. This will prevent contamination; or

• Use bottled water, especially for mixing baby formula.

After the flooding subsides:
• Disinfect your well using the procedures available from the Leon County Health Department or provided on the Department of Health’s website at http://www.doh.state.fl.us/environment/water/manual/floodinf.htm; and

• After you have disinfected your well, have your water tested by the Leon County Health Department or by a laboratory certified by the State to perform a drinking water analysis for coliform bacteria.

FLOOD WATERS POSE HEALTH RISKS

Tallahassee – Tropical Storm Debby has caused flooding throughout our area. Skin contact with flood waters can pose a serious health risk because flood waters are contaminated. Flood waters may contain fecal material, associated bacteria and viruses. If you are near or come into contact with flood waters, please take precautions.

The Leon County Health Department recommends the following precautions to prevent possible illness from flood waters:

• Basic hygiene is critical. If your water has been contaminated, decontaminate it before using it. Wash your hands with soap and clean water before preparing or eating food, after toilet use, after participating in flood cleanup activities and after handling articles contaminated with flood water or sewage.

• Avoid eating or drinking anything that has been contaminated with flood waters.

• Do not wade through standing water. If you do, bathe and put on clean clothes as soon as possible.

• Avoid contact with flood waters if you have open cuts or sores. If you have any open cuts or sores and cannot avoid contact with flood waters, keep your injuries as clean as possible by washing well with soap to control infection. If a wound develops redness, swelling or drainage, seek immediate medical attention. Residents who get cuts and/or puncture wounds and have not had a tetanus vaccination within the past 10 years need to get a tetanus booster.

• If there is a backflow of sewage into your house, wear rubber boots and waterproof gloves during cleanup. Remove and discard absorbent household materials, such as wall coverings, cloth, rugs and sheetrock. Clean walls and hard-surfaced floors with soap and water and disinfect with a solution of 1/4 cup of bleach to one gallon of water. Thoroughly disinfect food contact surfaces (for example, counter tops, refrigerators and tables) and areas where small children play. Wash all linens and clothing in hot water. Air dry larger items in the sun and spray them with a disinfectant. Steam clean all carpeting.

If your plumbing is functioning slowly or sluggishly, you should
• Conserve water as much as possible. The less water used the less sewage the septic tank must process. Minimize use of your washing machine. Go to a laundromat. Rental of a portable toilet for a temporary period may be another option.

• Do not have the septic tank pumped. Exceptionally high water tables might crush a septic tank that was pumped dry. If the fundamental problem is high ground water, pumping the tank does nothing to solve that problem.

• If you cannot use your plumbing without creating a sanitary nuisance, i.e., without sewage being exposed, consider moving to a new location until conditions improve.

• Do not have the septic tank and drainfield repaired until the ground has dried. Often systems are completely functional when the ground dries out. Any repair must be permitted and inspected by your county health department.

LEON COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT URGES PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES
TO PREVENT WEST NILE VIRUS AND OTHER MOSQUITO-BORNE ILLNESSES

TALLAHASSEE – Due to floodwaters from Tropical Storm Debby, Leon County Department of Health officials urge Florida’s residents and visitors to protect themselves against mosquito-borne diseases.

Be diligent in protecting yourselves from mosquito bites by following the “5 D’s,” which include:
• Dusk and Dawn – Avoid being outdoors when mosquitoes are seeking blood. For many species, this is during the dusk and dawn hours.
• Dress – Wear clothing that covers most of your skin.
• DEET – When the potential exists for exposure to mosquitoes, repellents containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, or N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide) are recommended. Picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus are other repellent options. If additional protection is necessary, a permethrin repellent can be applied directly to your clothing. Again, always follow the manufacturer’s directions.
• Drainage – Check around your home to rid the area of standing water, which is where mosquitoes can lay their eggs.

Tips on Repellent Use

• Always read label directions carefully for the approved usage before applying a repellent to skin. Some repellants are not suitable for children.
• Products with concentrations of up to 30% DEET are generally recommended. Other potential mosquito repellents, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in April 2005, contain picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. These products are generally available at local pharmacies. Look for active ingredients to be listed on the product label.
• Apply insect repellent to exposed skin, or onto clothing, but not under clothing.
• In protecting children, read label instructions to be sure the repellent is age-appropriate. According to the CDC, mosquito repellents containing oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children under the age of 3 years. DEET is not recommended on children younger than 2 months old.
• Infants should be kept indoors or mosquito netting should be used over carriers when mosquitoes are present.
• Avoid applying repellents to the hands of children. Adults should apply repellent first to their own hands and then transfer it to the child’s skin and clothing.
• If additional protection is necessary, apply a permethrin repellent directly to your clothing. Again, always follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Symptoms of West Nile virus may include headache, fever, fatigue, dizziness, weakness and confusion. Physicians should contact their county health department if they suspect an individual may have a mosquito-borne illness. Department of Health laboratories provide testing for physicians treating patients with clinical signs of mosquito-borne disease.

HEALTH OFFICIAL WARN OF CARBON MONOXIDE DANGERS
--Generator safety precautions can help prevent poisoning--

Tallahassee – As Floridians begin recovering from Tropical Storm Debby, the Leon County Health Department is urging the public to avoid carbon monoxide (CO) exposure by taking precautions with gas-powered appliances and charcoal or gas grills.

Carbon monoxide is an invisible, odorless, tasteless gas, and is highly poisonous. Depending on the level of exposure, CO may cause fatigue, weakness, chest pains for those with heart disease, shortness of breath upon exertion, nausea, vomiting, headaches, confusion, lack of coordination, impaired vision, loss of consciousness and, in severe cases, death.

The Leon County Health Department recommends the following precautions to help prevent carbon monoxide poisoning:

 Do not burn charcoal or gas grills inside a house, garage, vehicle, tent or fireplace.

 NEVER use a generator indoors, including in homes, garages, basements, crawl spaces and other enclosed or partially enclosed areas, even with ventilation. Opening doors and windows or using fans will not prevent CO build-up in the home.

 ALWAYS locate the unit outdoors on a dry surface, away from doors, windows, vents and air conditioning equipment that could allow CO to come indoors.

 Follow the instructions that come with your generator. Locate the unit outdoors and away from doors, windows, vents and air conditioning equipment that could allow CO to come indoors.

 Install battery-operated CO alarms or plug-in CO alarms with battery back-up in your home, according to the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The CO alarms should be certified to the requirements of the latest safety standards for CO alarms (UL 2034, IAS 6-96, or CSA 6.19.01).

 Test your CO alarms frequently and replace dead batteries.

 Remember, you cannot see or smell CO, and portable generators can produce high levels of CO very quickly.

 If you start to feel sick, dizzy, or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air RIGHT AWAY. DO NOT DELAY.

 If you have a poisoning emergency, call your nearest Florida Poison Information Center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call 911 immediately.

_________________

June 26, 2012, 3pm -

CANCELLATION: Suwannee River Partnership "CARES" Dinner

The Suwannee River Partnership’s Annual CARES Dinner, scheduled for this Thursday evening in Live Oak, has been cancelled due to flood conditions from Tropical Storm Debby.

This is the first-ever cancellation of the annual event that honors farmers and producers for their environmental stewardship. The dinner will be rescheduled later this summer and award recipients and their guests soon will be notified of the new date.

“Our honored guests, families and friends will be busy dealing with the aftermath of Debby,” explains Hugh Thomas, SRP spokesman. “We don’t want Debby to dampen this important annual event that honors the agriculture community so we’ve decided to postpone until conditions improve.”

For more information contact Hugh Thomas at 352.317.0504.

_____________________________

June 26, 2012, 12:05 p.m.

Progress Energy Florida crews continue to battle the effects of Tropical Storm Debby, in response to the slow-moving storm that continues to pound the Florida coastline. T. S. Debby is forecasted to make landfall along the Florida coast on Wednesday.

Here are the updated outage/restoration numbers (as of 11 a.m.):

· Power has been restored to more than 278,000 customers since the first round of storms battered Progress Energy Florida’s service territory on Sunday.

Approximately 17,000 Progress Energy Florida customers are currently without power.

Talquin Electric: We are currently experiencing about 2,500 outages primarily in Wakulla and Southern Leon County.

__________________________

June 26, 2012, 11:00 a.m.

Following is an update regarding City of Tallahassee response efforts to Tropical Storm Debby.

Electric Utility

As of 11:00 a.m. the City has approximately 130 customers without electric service, typically in small groups of 5-10 customers scattered throughout the service area (largest outage is 65 customers along Live Oak Drive off Old St. Augustine Road). Crews continue to respond and Electric Utility officials hope to have customers restored by later today. Customers still without power today are asked to report outages to City of Tallahassee Utilities at 891-4YOU (4968).

Monday, power outages affected 4,270 City customers, including five circuits impacted by weather-related issues. Most customers had service restored midnight.

Public Works (including sandbag availability)

Two City streets are currently closed due to flooding – Paul Russell Road between Old St. Augustine Road and Monday Road, and Creek Road off N. Ridge Road. Overnight, City Public Works crews responded to 20 reports of downed trees (total of 55 since Sunday); crews removed the trees from the road and are collecting debris today. Crews also responded to five drainage-related calls last night and today are continuing to check drainage systems to remove blockages.

For citizens wanting sandbags, the City is offering loose sand and bags at one City location – the Messer Field South parking lot along Jackson Bluff Road opposite the intersection with Dupree Street. Citizens must bring their own shovels and be prepared to fill bags themselves; customers are limited to 25 bags per household.

Airport

There were six cancelled flights yesterday at Tallahassee Regional Airport, along with several delays. While no flights have been cancelled today, a few minor delays have occurred. All passengers are reminded to contact their individual air carrier regarding flight schedules.

Solid Waste Services

Operating as normal today. Citizens are asked to place yard waste at the curb according to the City’s guidelines: grass clippings, leaves, pine straw and shrub trimmings, placed in heavy duty trash bags or small cardboard boxes; and small limbs, no larger than 6 feet long and four inches in diameter, placed in piles no higher than four feet. Larger items must be taken to the Leon County landfill on Apalachee Parkway; if citizens use private tree service companies, the company must remove larger items including major limbs and tree trunks.

Otherwise, City services are being maintained today on a normal schedule, including StarMetro transit services. The City’s Emergency Management team continues to monitor conditions and extra crews will remain on standby to respond as needed throughout this weather event.

Citizens are reminded not to drive on streets where water covers the surface. There could be deep water or potholes caused by the flooding. Police officers will issue citations to drivers ignoring road barricades. In addition, motorists are reminded to approach intersections where a traffic signal is not working as a four-way stop.

________________________

Talquin Electric Update - June 26, 2012 - 11:05am -

Depending on weather conditions, outages are likely to persist throughout the weekend. We are currently experiencing about 5,400 outages primarily in Wakulla and Southern Leon County. Additional assistance is arriving this morning to help with outage restoration. We appreciate your patience during this time if outage restoration takes longer than usual.

_______________________

Hamilton County, Florida - June 26, 2012 - 11:00am -

The summer school programs for the Hamilton County School District are canceled for the remainder of this week. Students and summer school staff do not have to report; however, twelve-month employees are to report to work.

_________________________________

Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office:
TROPICAL STORM DEBBY UPDATE 6-26-12

The Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office completed 10 Tropical Storm Debby related rescues involving 39 people Monday, June 25 as the storm dropped an estimated 25 to 30 inches of rain on the county, according to Sheriff Donnie Crum and Emergency Management Director Scott Nelson.

Most of the rescues occurred in the Sopchoppy area where rising water from the Sopchoppy River threatened residents. A small number of rescues were conducted in the Crawfordville area.

Record flooding from the Sopchoppy River at 35.6 feet was recorded during the night. Minor flooding occurs when the river is at 28 feet. There was concern about the Sopchoppy River Bridge surviving the flooding, but it came through without any damage. The joint efforts to combat the storm included: WCSO, FWC, FHP, FDLE, Wakulla Health Department and Wakulla Firefighters.

St. Marks River flooding has been moderate on the northern end and some homes in the area are known to flood. It will take a day or two for the assessments teams to get access to the area through Old Magnolia Road. The Ochlockonee River did not hit flood stage but some homes are expected to be flooded as the waters pass toward the south end of the river.

Statistically, WCSO had 71 reports of power lines being down, 123 trees down, 25 storm related fires due to downed lines and 22 individuals have called WCSO and reported flood waters inside their homes including one member of the WCSO Criminal Investigations Division.

Wakulla County is still under a Tropical Storm Warning. Shelters in Sopchoppy and Crawfordville housed 33 individuals on Monday night including 12 at Sopchoppy City Hall and 21 at Crawfordville Elementary School.

The WCSO gave away 2,000 sand bags on Monday and more bags are available through the office. Power outages were widespread as Progress Energy and Talquin Electric Cooperative crews responded to the calls.

Road closures due to storm surge or freshwater flooding included:

Levy Bay Road from intersection to motel

Sopchoppy Highway at Otter Creek

Webster Road

Inez Road

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. from Triplett Road to Tiger Hammock

State and local Emergency Management officials will be conducting damage assessments as the water recedes and the storm threat passes. No injuries have been reported.
____________________________

June 26, 2012- 9:45am

Jeff Smith of the Third Judicial Circuit called to say that the Suwannee County Courthouse in Live Oak and the Columbia County Courthouse in Lake City are closed today because of Debby.

____________________________

June 26, 2012- 9am

Franklin County

· The St. George Island Bridge/State Road (S.R.) 300 is closed from Eastpoint to St. George Island due to the evacuation of St. George Island.

· County Road (C.R.) 67 is closed at the Pine Log Creek (Crooked River) Bridge due to flooding.

· S.R. 65 is restricted at the Fort Gadsden Bridge due to water on the roadway.

· Lake Morality Road from C.R. 67 to U.S. 98 is closed.

· C.R. 67 from U.S. 98 to the Wakulla County line is closed.

Liberty County

· S.R. 67 from Telogia to Carrabelle is closed due to water on the road way.

Leon County

· C.R. 155 (Meridian Road) restricted at the Thomas Circle intersection in Tallahassee due to flooding issues.

Wakulla County

· C.R. 375/Smith Creek Road is closed at Syfrett Creek Bridge due to water on the roadway.

· Northbound U.S. 319/S.R. 375/Sopchoppy Highway at the Sopchoppy River Bridge is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· S.R. 30/U.S. 98 at C.R. 375 in Panacea is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· Southbound S.R. 377 at U.S. 319/S.R. 375/Sopchoppy Highway is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· U.S. 319/S.R. 375/Sopchoppy Highway at Allen Green Road has been closed by the Florida Highway Patrol.

· U.S. 319/S.R. 375/Sopchoppy Highway at Buckhorn Creek is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· U.S. 319/S.R. 375/Sopchoppy Highway at Robbers Roost Road is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· U.S. 319/S.R. 375/Sopchoppy Highway at Harvey Mill/Lawhon Mill Road intersection is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· U.S. 319/S.R. 375/Sopchoppy Highway at Summer Brooke Lane is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· S.R. 30/U.S. 98 at Jer-be-lou Boulevard intersection is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· S.R. 30/U.S. 98 from Wakulla River to Shell Point is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· Curtis Mills Road at Sanders Cemetery from C.R. 22 to C.R. 375 is closed.

· C.R. 373/Spring Hill Road at S.R. 267/Bloxham Cutoff Road is closed.

· Spring Creek Road is closed.

· Otter Lake Road is closed.

· Summer Street in Sopchoppy is closed.

· Levy Bay Road from intersection to hotel is closed.

· S.R. 363/Woodville Highway at Cherry Lane is restricted due to water on the roadway.

Motorists are reminded to be watchful of other drivers and road conditions and to be on the lookout for flooded roads. If the road ahead is flooded, turn around and find an alternate route. Flooded roads may hide the fact that the roadway is washed out underneath and as little as six inches of rushing water can force your car off the road.

_______________________

June 26, 2012- 9am

Wakulla County Road Closures

Curtis Mills/Sanders Cemetery
Smith Creek Rd @Syfrette Creek Bridge
Spring Creek Road
Harms Road
Springhill/Bloxham
Hwy 98 in Panacea (1 lane only)
Otter Lake Road
319 @ Allen Green Road
Summer Street in Sopchoppy
Hwy 98 @ Jer-be-lou (water over road but passible with caution)
Levy Bay road from intersection to motel
Sopchoppy highway at Otter Creek
Webster Road
Inez Road
Dr. MLK from Triplett Road to Tiger Hammock
__________________________________

June 26, 2012- 9am

United Way of the Big Bend

Due to Tropical Storm Debby, the ReadingPals Press Conference has been rescheduled to July 11th at 10am at Riley Elementary School. Please mark your calendars.
__________________________________

June 25, 2012- 9:30 pm

Franklin County

· The St. George Island Bridge/State Road (S.R.) 300 is closed from Eastpoint to St. George Island due to the evacuation of St. George Island.

· County Road (C.R.) 67 is closed at the Pine Log Creek (Crooked River) Bridge due to flooding.

· S.R. 65 is restricted at the Fort Gadsden Bridge due to water on the roadway.

· S.R. 30/U.S. 98 in Port St. Joe is restricted between mile marker (mm) 2.190 and mm 2.269 near the Dollar General store due to flooding.

Leon County

· S.R. 155 (Meridian Road) restricted at the Thomas Circle intersection in Tallahassee due to flooding issues.

Wakulla County

· C.R. 375/Smith Creek Road is closed at Syfrett Creek Bridge due to water on the roadway.

· Northbound U.S. 319/S.R. 375/Sopchoppy Highway at the Sopchoppy River Bridge is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· S.R. 30/U.S. 98 at C.R. 375 in Panacea is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· Southbound S.R. 377 at U.S. 319/S.R. 375/Sopchoppy Highway is restricted due to water on the roadway.

· U.S. 319/S.R. 375/Sopchoppy Highway at Allen Green Road has been closed by the Florida Highway Patrol

For the latest closures and updates from the Florida Department of Transportation District Three follow us on twitter at @myfdot_nwfl.

________________________________________

June 25,2012 -8:45 pm

Talquin Electric reports power outages for the Lake Bradford Substation. Currently, 5685 Talquin Electric members are without power.
________________________________________

June 25, 2012 -8:30 pm

Due to the amount of rainfall, the Madison County School District will be closed for Tuesday June 26th. This includes Boys and Girls Club. Summer School and regular district hours will resume on Wednesday June 27th.
__________________________________

June 25, 2012 -8:15 pm

Leon County Emergency Management and Leon County Public Works announce the opening of a new sandbag location available to the public at the following location (limit 20 bags):

● Ranchero Road at Oak Ridge Road (Southside location)

This location will not be staffed and residents will need to bring
their own shovel. Sand, bags and ties will be available for public use.
Residents are asked to abide by the “honor system” and take no more
than 20 bags.

Property owners who have experienced flooding problems in the past can use sandbags to help protect stormwater from entering their property. A flyer describing the most effective placement of sandbags will also be available at the site to assist residents as they prepare their homes and/or property for potential flooding.

The City of Tallahassee will also be providing sandbags to residents.
Residents must bring their own shovels and be prepared to load sand into bags themselves. A 25-bag limit will apply at the City location. TheCity’s sandbag distribution will be at:

● Messer Field South parking lot along Jackson Bluff Road; opposite
the intersection with Dupree Street

Leon County Emergency Management is advising that residents should monitor the latest forecasts and be prepared to take the necessaryprecautions to protect life and property. Drivers should use caution and adhere to any official signage. The National Weather Service also warns that residents should not drive cars through flooded areas and that if they see flood waters to turn around and find another route. Residents are also encouraged not to attempt to walk through floodwaters. The most current road condition information is available on the Leon County EIP at www.LeonCountyFL.gov/ei/ .

Families are also encouraged to have an emergency preparedness plan. For assistance with planning, log on to www.HaveAHurricanePlan.com . Additionally, residents can sign up for emergency alerts at the Leon County website at www.LeonCountyFL.gov .

For more information regarding signing up for emergency alerts, using
the Emergency Information Portal (EIP), or for residents requiring
assistance, please contact Leon County Emergency Management at (850) 488-5921.
_______________________________________

June 25, 2012-7:20 pm

The Wakulla County Sheriff's Office, Division of Emergency Management in coordination with County Administration, is issuing a voluntary evacuation of homes along the Sopchoppy River, the upper St. Marks River (north of Newport), the Ochlockonee River and low lying areas throughout the county. The NWS has issued a Flood Warning for Wakulla County. Residents along these rivers and in low lying areas are asked to take steps to protect property and evacuate as conditions warrant. A shelter has been opened at Crawfordville Elementary. For more information please contact the Wakulla County Sherriff's Office at 850.745.7200
_______________________________

Tallahassee, Florida June 25,2012- 6:15 pm

Leon County Shelter is Open at Florida State University High School
Officials encourage use of Leon County’s Emergency Information Portal and Emergency Alerts (Pet Friendly)

The Capital Area Chapter of the American Red Cross has announced the opening of a shelter at 6 p.m. today at the Florida State University
High School (aka: Florida High), 3000 School House Road off of Capital Circle Southeast. The Florida High location has been designated as a pet-friendly shelter for this event only. Pet owners should bring veterinarian records as well as food and medicine or other essential items needed to care for their pets.

Those choosing to evacuate to the shelter should bring prescription
medications, copies of important documents, blankets, baby items, and other vital supplies. Please keep in mind the shelter may be crowded,therefore, do not bring any unnecessary items.

This shelter will remain open as needed.

Official updates can be found on the Leon County Emergency Information Portal (EIP) at www.LeonCountyFL.gov/ei/ . Leon County Emergency Management is advising that residents should monitor the latest forecasts and be prepared to take the necessary precautions to protect life and property. Drivers should use caution and adhere to any official signage. The National Weather Service also warns that residents should not drive cars through flooded areas and that if they see flood waters to turn around and find another route. Residents are also encouraged not to attempt to walk through floodwaters. Any and all flood water should be considered to be contaminated. Do not allow children to play in, wade through or swim in flood water.

Residents requiring more information or assistance should call Leon
County Emergency Management at (850) 488-5921. Families are also
encouraged to have an emergency preparedness plan. For assistance with planning, log on to www.HaveAHurricanePlan.com . Additionally, residents can sign up for emergency alerts at the Leon County website at www.LeonCountyFL.gov .

For more information, please visit the Capital Area Chapter of the
American Red Cross website at www.tallyredcross.org , call the Red Cross at (850) 878-6080, or call the Leon County Emergency Operations Center at (850) 488-5921.
____________________________________________

June 25,2012-5:55 pm

Officials from the Wakulla Emergency Operation Center have recommended the closure of the Wakulla County School District including summer school classes. Continued downpours are expected through the evening with potential hazards and flood conditions. All Wakulla schools will remain closed Tuesday, June 26. All school district employees should also stay home.

June 25,2012- 5:20 pm

The Franklin County and Wakulla County Circuit and County Courts will be closed tomorrow, Tuesday, 26 June 2012 due to Tropical Storm Debby. The decision was made by the Chief Judge, in conjunction with the advice of local county emergency management officials, court officials, and county government. Cases scheduled to be heard tomorrow will be rescheduled for future dates to be determined. All jurors summoned to report tomorrow should not report. The court will also seek a tolling order from the Supreme Court of Florida so that parties will not be adversely impacted because of this closing. The court will continue to carefully monitor Tropical Storm Debby's progress and make timely decisions about possible future court closures as circumstances warrant.
________________________________

Tallahassee, Florida -June 25, 2012- 5:00 pm

Leon County Emergency Management is continuing to closely monitor the current weather situation related to Tropical Storm Debby and notes that continued heavy rainfall is expected over the next few days. A Flash Flood Warning is in effect for Southern Leon County until 4:45 p.m. Also, a Flash Flood Watch, in effect through Tuesday morning, and a Hazardous Weather Outlook have been issued for Leon County. Residents living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take actionshould flooding develop.

Updates on official road closures can be found at the Leon County
Emergency Information Portal (EIP) at www.LeonCountyFL.gov/ei/ . Any and
all flood water should be considered to be contaminated. Do not allow
children to play in, wade through or swim in flood water.

Leon County Emergency Management and Leon County Public Works announce
that sandbagging operations have begun. Sandbags are available to the
public at the following location (limit 20 bags):

● Apalachee Regional Park (in front of the Solid Waste Management
Facility), 7550 Apalachee Parkway

This location will not be staffed and residents will need to bring
their own shovel. Sand, bags and ties will be available for public use.
Residents are asked to abide by the honor system and take no more
than 20 bags.

Property owners who have experienced flooding problems in the past can
use sandbags to help protect stormwater from entering their property. A
flyer describing the most effective placement of sandbags will also be
available at the site to assist residents as they prepare their homes
and/or property for potential flooding.

The City of Tallahassee will also be providing sandbags to residents.
Residents must bring their own shovels and be prepared to load sand into
bags themselves. A 25-bag limit will apply at the City location. The
Citys sandbag distribution will be at:

● Messer Field South parking lot along Jackson Bluff Road; opposite
the intersection with Dupree Street

Leon County Emergency Management is advising that residents should
monitor the latest forecasts and be prepared to take the necessary
precautions to protect life and property. Drivers should use caution and
adhere to any official signage. The National Weather Service also warns
that residents should not drive cars through flooded areas and that if
they see flood waters to turn around and find another route. Residents
are also encouraged not to attempt to walk through floodwaters. The most
current road condition information is available on the Leon County EIP
at www.LeonCountyFL.gov/ei/ .

Residents requiring more information or assistance should call Leon
County Emergency Management at (850) 488-5921. Families are also
encouraged to have an emergency preparedness plan. For assistance with
planning, log on to www.HaveAHurricanePlan.com . Additionally, residents
can sign up for emergency alerts at the Leon County website at
www.LeonCountyFL.gov .
________________________________________

June 25, 2012-4:50 p.m.

Crawfordville, FL – On June 24, 2012, the Wakulla County Board of County Commissioners issued a Proclamation declaring a State of Local Emergency. Wakulla County is on alert and taking proactive measures in monitoring Tropical Storm Debby.

Due to the weather and safety concerns for citizens and County staff (with the exception of essential personnel), all Wakulla County Board of County Commissioner offices will be closed from 3:00p.m. today until Noon on Tuesday, June 26, 2012. In addition, all Board Workshops scheduled for Tuesday the 26th have been cancelled and will be re-scheduled at a future date.

_________________________________________

June 25,2012 -2:40 pm

An outage has been reported affecting the Gretna Substation – this affects 3248 members in Gadsden County. At present the cause is unknown. Crews are working to restore power as quickly and safely as possible.

________________________________________

June 25, 2012 - 1pm

American Red Cross Shelters Remain Open

The American Red Cross Capital Area Chapter has two shelters open.

1. Tolar Elementary School in Bristol for Franklin County residents evacuating and for local Liberty County residents.

2. Crawfordville Elementary School in Wakulla County.

Both shelters may go on standby until this evening. Other Big Bend county shelters remain on standby.

The Red Cross has also partially opened the Chapter Disaster Operations Center for Sheltering, Mass Care, Logistics and Staffing.

______________________________________

PROGRESS ENERGY UPDATE

There are three damaged transmission structures down in St. George Sound. Because of this, there is no electric power to St. George Island. We have to wait until the weather subsides to assess the extent of the damage. At this point, we do not have an estimated time of restoration and will not have one until we are able to get onto the island.

The Eastpoint to St. George Island Tap transmission project is scheduled to be completed July 9 – with a switchover of power starting at midnight, and lasting approximately eight hours. We are accelerating the project and will complete the switch over to the new equipment as soon as possible. Because of the planned new work, we will not repair the damaged structures.

Once we get onto the island, it will still take several days to conduct damage assessment and complete the switch over to the new equipment. Any customers that have not evacuated will need to be prepared for multiple days without electricity.

_________________________

June 25, 2012 - 11:50am -

Bill Brumfield, Superintendent of Schools in Jefferson County, informed Eyewitness News that he has canceled school for students tomorrow (Tuesday, 6/26/12) due to the inclement weather. All 12 month employees will still need to report to work.

___________________________

06/25/2012 - 9:30am -

Talquin Electric members on oxygen or life support equipment should make arrangements to go to a location where there is power if experiencing an outage this week as a result of Tropical Storm Debby. Contact Talquin with a phone number on how to reach you when power is restored. Crews are working as quickly and safely as possible but due to the large number of outages and the expected duration of the storm, restoration time could be longer than usual.
Current outage status for Talquin Electric - A circuit is open at Harbinwood Substation; approximately 1,172 members are affected and are without power. Crews are working now to make repairs and Talquin will continue to have available crews working around the clock. This storm is expected to bring heavy rains and winds to our service area which could result in numerous outages throughout the week.

To report an outage
1-866-899-4832 (Automated System)
1-888-802-1832 (Live Operator)
Go to http://www.talquinelectric.com/outageinfo.aspx

For outage status go to http://www.outageentry.com/dvosm/dvOSM2.php?Client=talq
Talquin will be updating its website and Facebook page throughout the day. We appreciate your patience during this time if outage restoration takes longer than usual.

_____________________________

Madison County, FL -- June 24, 2012

Summer School in Madison County will be canceled for Monday June 25th because of weather and safety concerns. As of now School has only been canceled for Monday. Any other changes will be announced.

_____________________________________________________
Tallahassee, FL -- June 24, 2012 -- 9:11pm

American Red Cross Capital Area Chapter Opens Shelters With Others On Standby

The American Red Cross Capital Area Chapter has opened Tolar Elementary School for mandatory evacuation from Franklin County.

Other shelters on standby include Crawfordville Elementary in Wakulla County, Taylor County Elementary School, and for Leon County; Oak Ridge Elementary School, Springwood Elementary School and Lawton Chiles High School.

The chapter will be partially activating our Chapter Disaster Operations Center tomorrow as the Chapter will continue to ramp up for this storm for sheltering and Mass Care..
____________________________________________________
Apalachicola, FL -- June 24, 2012 -- 8:34 PM

Brett Johnson, Franklin County PIO says the Apalachicola Bridge is currently open, but he expects it to close again. The St. George Island Bridge is still closed.
___________________________________________________
Franklin and Wakulla County, FL -- June 24, 2012

The Wakulla and Franklin county courthouses will be closed Monday June 25. Those buildings are in Crawfordville and Apalachicola. Jurors do not have to report to court Monday.
___________________________________________________
Franklin County, FL -- June24, 2012

All Franklin County Offices will be closed on Monday, June 25, 2012. If you have a court appearance scheduled for tomorrow you are asked to contact Maarcia Johnson at 653.9023 OR 653-5409.
____________________________________________________
Wakulla County, FL -- June 24, 2012 -- 7:34 P.M.

Based on the latest forecast information from the National Hurricane Center, the Wakulla County Sheriff's Office, Division of Emergency Management in coordination with County Administration is issuing a level A evacuation along the coastline south of US 98, along Surf Road and in low lying coastal areas. Residents and interests along the immediate coastline should take steps to protect property and are asked to consider evacuation. If you have any questions or need assistance with evacuations, please contact the Wakulla County Sheriff's Office at 850.745.7200. A shelter is open at Tolar Elementary at 14745 NW County Road 12, Bristol Florida.

___________________________________________
Taylor County, FL -- June 24, 2012 -- 7:33 P.M.

At 5:30 PM on Sunday, June 24, 2012, the Taylor County Board of County Commissioners signed a resolution declaring a Local State of Emergency in response to the anticipated effects of Tropical Storm Debby. The commissioners also passed a resolution encouraging the voluntary evacuation of the coastal and low-lying areas of the county. A shelter at Perry Elementary School (1600 E. Green Street, Perry, FL) will open at 7 PM for evacuating residents. For further shelter information please call the American Red Cross at 850-223-4401. The Emergency Management Department recommends that coastal residents move vehicles, trailers, and other property to higher elevations and to continue to monitor the progress of the storm.

As of 5pm Sunday, Tropical Storm Debby was located about 100 miles south-southwest of Apalachicola, Florida. Debby is moving slowly toward the northeast at 3 mph and no significant motion is expected through the next couple of days. However, this forecast is still uncertain and the official forecast from the National Hurricane Center has made significant changes to their forecast track. Nearly all of the Florida Panhandle west of the Suwannee River is in the 3 day error cone and most areas north of the I-4 Corridor are within the 5 day error cone. The combination of storm surge and tides may cause surge to reach up to 4-6 feet in Apalachee Bay and near 2-4 feet along the rest of the Florida Gulf Coast.

The Taylor County Emergency Operations Center has been activated to a Level 2-Partial Activation and continues to monitor the storm and coordinate with the County’s departments and response partners to ensure the safety of all Taylor County residents.

________________________________________________
UPDATE Jefferson County June 24, 2012 7:32 p.m.

The Jefferson County school system's summer 3rd grade reading camp has been canceled for Monday June 25. The 21st Century after school school program will also be canceled. All 12 month employees should report on Monday.
___________________________________________________
[UPDATE] Franklin, County, June 24, 2012 -- 6:06 PM

Revised Mandatory Evacuation Order Franklin County

Additional information from the National Hurricane Center indicates that all persons living in mobile homes be included in the mandatory evacuation due to possible storm strengthening and increased storm surge for an extended time.
______________________________________________
Franklin County, FL -- June 24, 2012 -- 4:36 PM

At 4:00 PM EDST The Franklin County Operations Center is issuing a mandatory evacuation for the following areas: Alligator Point, St. George Island, any low lying, flood prone areas.

They are asking all other residents to remain in their homes and off the roads and streets.
_____________________________________________________
Wakulla County, FL --- June 24, 2012 -- 4:30 PM

Wakulla County Sheriff's Office Division of Emergency Management is issuing a voluntary evacuation of homes in low lying areas south of US Highway 98.
___________________________________________________
Florida --- June 24, 2012

Due to high winds associated with Tropical Storm Debby, the St. George Island Bridge and the John Gorrie Bridge (at Apalachicola) in Franklin County have been closed to all traffic. Members of Florida Highway Patrol, Franklin County SO, and Fish and Wildlife Commission are assisting in the traffic detours.

The winds continue to punish the coastline and with weather reports indicated TS Debby will continue to affect the area for the next 12 to 18 hours, the bridges are projected to remain closed.

Related Documents
06 28 12 2PM SitRep on TD Debby

Close Call For Local Man When Tree Falls On Car

Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.