Pinellas County crews at work repairing flood-damaged infrastructure.

Aug. 4, 2015 – Brooker Creek remains above flood stage, leading to continued flooding in the Tarpon Woods subdivision, including Tarpon Woods Boulevard. The creek is expected to slowly recede if conditions remain the same, and with normal rainfall amounts, it is expected that it will be four to five days before flood waters completely subside.

Three residents stayed overnight in a shelter at Clearwater Community Church in Dunedin that was made available for those who chose to evacuate their homes, and Pinellas County Animal Services sheltered two dogs.

Pinellas County crews are in the field continuing to assess and repair damaged infrastructure. While the county will address downed trees along public areas, residents are reminded to contact a licensed contractor to address any tree damage on private property.

Pinellas County has provided approximately 1,700 sandbags to residents: about 1,300 at John Chesnut Sr. Park, 2200 East Lake Road in Palm Harbor, and about 400 at Lealman Park, 3800 54th Ave. N. in Lealman. Sandbags are still being offered until 7 p.m. at both locations. Sandbags are limited to 20 per person. Material and bags are supplied. Residents must fill their own sandbags. Shovels are available. These sandbag locations will not be open after Tuesday, Aug. 4.

As areas continue to experience flooding, people should be wary of standing water and take precautions. Motorists who are not certain of the depth of the water on roadways are urged to avoid driving through the floodwaters: “Turn around, don’t drown.” Residents should not wade in flood water. The water can be contaminated and pose dangers such as electrical wires and wildlife.

If residents see wildlife in distress or encounter any other issues with wildlife, they should contact the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Wildlife Alert hotline at (888) 404-3922.

With the increase in standing water, Pinellas County Mosquito Control is responding throughout the county to prevent mosquito breeding. Residents can help by practicing the three Ds: drain water; dress in light colors and cover all parts of the body; defend with repellent containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.

For more information visit www.pinellascounty.org or contact Pinellas County Public Works at (727) 464-8900.