What is the location of the flooding?

Hurricane Debby made landfall in Florida on August 5, 2024, bringing torrential rain, flooding, and storm surges to the state and surrounding region (1)(2).

Flooding is occurring in northern Florida in the Big Bend region. Affected areas include Steinhatchee and surrounding coastal regions. Parts of Sarasota, Manatee counties, and areas along the Manatee River are experiencing significant flooding.

Which cities or areas are affected by the flooding?

The cities and regions affected by the flooding include:

• Bradenton, Florida
• Cedar Key, Florida
• Oldsmar, Florida
• Perry, Florida
• Sarasota, Florida
• Steinhatchee, Florida
• St. Pete Beach, Florida
• St. Petersburg, Florida
• Tampa, Florida
• Tarpon Springs, Florida

Additionally, some areas in Georgia and South Carolina are preparing for potential flooding as Hurricane Debby moves east, including:

• Charleston, South Carolina
• Savannah, Georgia

What is the current containment status of the flooding?

Efforts are underway to control and mitigate the flooding. Over 17,000 linemen are working to restore electricity in Florida, and the Georgia National Guard has been deployed to assist with response and recovery efforts.

Despite these efforts, several rivers and streams in Florida have reached or are expected to reach major flood stages, and flash flood warnings have been issued in several areas.

Are there any evacuation orders or alerts in place?

Authorities have issued evacuation orders and emergency alerts in various affected areas. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis warned residents to avoid driving through flooded streets (3). In Georgia, Governor Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency and authorized the deployment of National Guard troops (4).

Tornado watches are in effect for parts of central and northern Florida, and southeastern Georgia.

How can I protect myself from mold after flooding?

It’s important to take steps to prevent mold after a flood.

• Before entering a flooded area, make sure it is safe and free from electrical hazards or structural damage.
• Use protective gear: wear gloves, goggles, and a KN95/FFP2 mask to minimize exposure to mold spores.
• If there is still standing water, remove it as quickly as possible. Use pumps, wet-dry vacuums, or buckets to extract the water.
• Open windows and doors to facilitate air circulation and use fans, dehumidifiers, and HVAC systems to help dry the space. This step is crucial within the first 24-48 hours after flooding to prevent mold growth.
• Remove and discard any items that have been severely damaged by floodwater and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. This includes carpets, upholstered furniture, mattresses, and any other porous materials.
• Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces with a detergent or cleaner suitable for mold remediation. Use a solution of 1.5 cups of bleach mixed with one gallon of water to disinfect nonporous surfaces. Never mix bleach with ammonia or other cleaning products, as the fumes are toxic.
• Maintain an indoor relative humidity (RH) of 35-50%. High humidity promotes mold growth, so consider using dehumidifiers in damp areas.
• Run a high-performance air purifier for mold, both during and after the mold removal work.
• If the flooding and mold damage are extensive, consider contacting professionals specializing in mold remediation to ensure proper cleanup and restoration.

Remember, mold can pose health risks, so it's important to take these steps promptly and thoroughly. If you experience persistent mold-related health issues or have concerns about extensive mold growth, consult with a medical professional or a mold remediation specialist.