News Summary
Four months after Hurricane Milton devastated Pasco County, families in Dade City continue to face significant flooding challenges. Despite efforts from state officials, many remain trapped by standing water on private roads, making access difficult. Community members are rallying for assistance, highlighting urgent needs for evaluations and support from local officials. As frustration grows, residents prepare to voice their concerns at an upcoming county meeting, hoping for impactful resolutions to restore their community.
Pasco County Families Face Ongoing Flooding Challenges Four Months After Hurricane Milton
In the heart of Dade City, Pasco County, residents are grappling with the lingering impacts of Hurricane Milton, which struck the region four months ago. For many families, the floodwaters have yet to recede, creating challenges that seem to be becoming a new normal. As the days stretch into weeks and then months, local residents are raising their voices and just wishing for some help.
State Officials Assess the Situation
The Florida Division of Emergency Management is currently assessing the ongoing flooding situation that has left many families in precarious conditions. Previously, the division had taken action by deploying pumps to drain excess water from the Hickory Hills neighborhood. However, those pumps were withdrawn in mid-December, leaving residents to navigate the challenges posed by standing water.
Community Concerns Echo Among Residents
Recently, state officials, including State Senator Danny Burgess, made a visit to the Hickory Hills neighborhood to meet with affected homeowners. The senator expressed genuine concern for the plight of the residents, emphasizing that the community should not feel forgotten. With persistent flooding issues, the urgency for assistance is palpable among families.
Access Issues Come to Light
Many private roads in the area remain submerged, creating a significant barrier for residents. The county has stated that it cannot intervene as the floodwaters are on private land, which only complicates access. Homeowners face additional frustrations as they cannot drain the water themselves, as it would require traversing several private properties just to reach the nearest lakes or ponds.
Personal Accounts Highlight Struggles
Victor Lemus, one resident deeply affected by the situation, has reported that he hasn’t been able to access his private road since October. The limited access is more than just an inconvenience; it raises serious concerns about emergency response times for fire and medical needs. Currently, he has to navigate through a neighbor’s yard to reach his home.
Meanwhile, another homeowner, Paula Chacon, has described her property as being engulfed under five to six feet of water, pleading for some kind of speedy assistance from the county. As the levels remain high, every day brings a new layer of frustration for those hoping for relief.
County’s Plans for Community Evaluation
In light of these ongoing issues, Pasco County officials have announced plans to visit the Hickory Hills community soon to evaluate the current flooding situation. It is hoped that their visit will yield tangible solutions for the affected residents who are eager to see a resolution.
Next Steps for Affected Residents
Several of the residents who have been struggling with these flooding issues intend to address their concerns during an upcoming Pasco County Commission meeting. This platform will provide a voice to many who feel overlooked in the wake of their plight. It is a chance to bring their struggles to a larger stage and urge the county for the assistance they desperately need.
No Response from Local Officials
Local government officials have faced criticism from residents, such as Lemus, for their apparent lack of communication about available assistance. Frustration grows as there seems to be an absence of responses from prominent figures, including requests made to the office of Governor Ron DeSantis.
A Community Unyielding in Its Resolve
The struggle continues for families in Dade City as Flood issues persist long after Hurricane Milton. Residents are coming together, rallying for support and raising their voices in hopes that they will not be forgotten, and that solutions will be provided to help them reclaim their community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Fox 13 News: Pasco County Emergency Officials
- Google Search: Hurricane Milton Florida news
- CNN: Hurricane Milton Live Updates
- Wikipedia: Hurricane Milton
- New York Times: Hurricane Milton and Climate Change Anxiety
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane
