Areas, roads to avoid days after rain has passed

Some areas are still under water Wednesday morning- more than 24 hours after the rain has passed. Others, however, are dry, but have roads riddled with pot holes and depressions from the recent downpour.

Here is an update on some of the hardest hit locations in the Tampa Bay area, along with road closures to keep in mind for the morning commute.

In Pasco County:

Dozens of people are in shelters and hundreds more are out of their homes as the Anclote River begins cresting.

Many homes are flooded out in the Elfers community, and the electric company had to shut off the power.

The Red Cross has set up some shelters; the Salvation Army has been handing out supplies and nearby churches are giving out hot meals to those in need.

Locals have been told it may not be safe to return to their homes until Friday.

In Pinellas County:

Streets are still flooded in the Tarpon Woods subdivision, making some of them still impassable, even for big SUVs and pickup trucks.

Flood waters from Brooker Creek have been running through backyards and into the streets. The creek is the end of the line for a large flood basin, and was one foot above flood stage when it crested Tuesday.

The flood continues to recede slowly, and officials have reported only a few damaged homes, despite the lingering water.

In Hillsborough County:

Most of the flooding has gone down, but damage to the roads remains.

While there are reportedly hundreds of new potholes on major Tampa streets, one of the largest depressions is being reported right in front of St. Joseph’s Hospital on Dr. MLK Boulevard at MacDill Avenue.

Two inside lanes are currently shut down as a result, leaving one outside lane open in each direction.

Drivers should avoid the area if possible, and can use Tampa Bay Boulevard and Hillsborough Avenue as alternates. 

A second major depression opened on Armenia Avenue between Kennedy Boulevard and North A Street shortly before 7 a.m. SkyFOX caught several vehicles driving over it before officials were able to block off two lanes in the area.

Drivers would usually take MacDill as an alternate, but a water main break has occurred on MacDill at Douglas Street. The intersection is expected to be closed through Friday.

Commuters in this area should plan for extra travel time, and look for detours on the roads.

Drivers who spot additional depressions or potholes are urged to call the City of Tampa Utilities call line at 813-274-8811. For storm water issues, call 813-274-3101.