ASTOR, Fla. – Flooding along Bonnet Road in Astor is expected to intensify as water from the St. John’s River slowly creeps onto streets and into driveways, leaving residents who live near the river once again confronting rising water despite sunny skies.
Some people who live on Bonnet Road are dealing with deep standing water across the roadway and water lapping at the edge of driveways. Several streets in the neighborhood displayed similar conditions; some told News 6 that the situation is familiar but still difficult to manage.
“It’s still tough to deal with,” a lady named Beth said.
[WATCH: Flooding threatens homes along St. Johns River in Astor]
The town sits on the St. Johns River, between Lake and Volusia counties.
The St. John’s River has been in moderate flood stage for just over a week, and forecasters say conditions are expected to worsen. Meteorologist Jonathan Kegges, who has been monitoring the area, warned that the combination of a king tide and an approaching coastal storm is likely to push water levels higher. Kegges also added that the current wind direction is exacerbating the rise.
Officials and forecasters are watching conditions closely; they say the most significant impacts are expected to begin on Saturday. Residents and emergency personnel in the area are preparing for higher water levels and more widespread inundation if forecasts hold.
With the river already elevated and streets remaining submerged even during clear weather, local authorities and residents continue to monitor forecasts and advisories as the tide and storm system approach.
For years, News 6 has reported on flooding issues in Astor.
Despite being so far inland, storm surge from recent hurricanes has caused the river to rise, flooding streets and even coming up to homes.
[WATCH: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recommends projects to prevent flooding in Astor]
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers conducted a study to consider flood prevention techniques in the area. Last year, the corps recommended a series of improvements to the Astor area.
Lake County, however, would have to pay for the implementation of any of those recommendations.
The county said its engineers were analyzing those projects to see if they were worth the cost.
A Lake County spokesperson told News 6 in August that evaluations were ongoing. According to county public works officials:
“Lake County continues to evaluate long-term flood mitigation options for Astor, pending additional funding support. Our engineers are evaluating recommendations to ensure they benefit local homes and structures, while we work with partners to support residents affected by rising water levels.”