The Sanford lakefront has been closed to recreational activities, as Seminole County officials expect flooding to crest at Lake Monroe on Thursday.
New forecast models show flooding will crest at Lake Monroe on Thursday, October 6, with St. John’s River water levels expected to continue to rise through that day.
According to officials providing an update on Seminole County’s recovery efforts after Hurricane Ian, flood levels are now forecast to reach the historical values set during Tropical Storm Faye in 2008, which was 8.5 feet above mean sea level.
Officials say that the historic value has been measured before and should avoid all critical infrastructures. Contingency plans have been developed in the event the forecasts change.
A water reclamation facility near Lake Monroe is experiencing excessive flows. Sanford officials say there is no swimming, fishing, or wading allowed along the south shore of Lake Monroe from Sanford’s Mellonville Avenue to Seminole County’s Lake Monroe Wayside Park.
The Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens is currently closed as the entrance road is not passable. All animals are being cared for by staff, according to Seminole County officials.
The ban on swimming and fishing at Lake Monroe will continue until conditions warrant lifting.