State of Florida - State Emergency Response Team
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: ESF-14 Public Information

April 6, 2009
(850) 921-0217

STATE OF FLORIDA PREPARES FOR NORTH FLORIDA ROAD CLOSURES DUE TO FLOOD CONDITIONS ALONG THE SUWANNEE RIVER

TALLAHASSEE - State transportation, law enforcement and emergency management officials are preparing for the flooding of major roads in North Florida along the Suwannee River due to recent heavy rains in the region.

According to the Southeast River Forecast Center in Atlanta, the high levels of the Suwannee River could force the closure of U.S. 90 at the Suwannee River (Madison and Suwannee County line) as early as Wednesday.

If river water levels continue to rise, Interstate 10 (I-10) at the Suwannee River Bridge could also face closure as early as Thursday.

As a safety precaution, motorists are asked to delay or avoid travel through the impacted area until the conditions improve. Many smaller roads along the Suwannee River will be impacted as well over the
weekend.

To assist travelers, the state of Florida is coordinating response efforts with the state of Georgia to develop alternative routes through the region.

All motorists are advised to monitor their local media outlets for the latest information on weather conditions and possible road closures.

For real-time information on traffic conditions call 511 or visit www.FL511.com before getting on the road.

For additional information please visit www.FloridaDisaster.org

All students, teachers and parents can find educational information and free downloadable materials at: www.KidsGetAPlan.com

And for the latest daily situation and flash reports go to: www.YouTube.com/FloridaSERT