EUSTIS, Fla. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Jacksonville District, in coordination with Lake County Emergency Management and state partners, has mobilized personnel and equipment to assist with ongoing flood response efforts in Lake County following recent heavy rainfall across the region.
USACE crews are providing technical assistance under PL 84-99 by providing assessments and recommendations to Lake County for the installation of high-capacity water pumps to help alleviate flooding in affected neighborhoods. The pumps are being strategically placed in coordination with local officials to support water management efforts and protect homes, infrastructure, and public safety.
“This is a team effort,” said U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Jacksonville District Deputy Commander Maj. Matthew Westcott. “When flooding impacts Florida communities, our mission is to provide technical and operational support to local partners to help reduce risk and restore normalcy as quickly as possible.”
Lake County officials requested assistance through the Florida Division of Emergency Management, triggering federal coordination to provide additional resources and technical expertise.
A slow-moving storm that stalled over west Central Florida Sunday dropped a more than 16-plus inches of rain on parts of Mount Dora and Eustis in just a few hours, washing out several main roads and forcing emergency crews to assess the damage in the dark.
"We appreciate the support of our local, state, and federal partners who responded quickly with the resources and expertise needed to accelerate recovery," said Megan Milanese, Lake County Emergency Management director. "The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' technical expertise in the flood fight mission is a vital resource in our efforts to protect homes and infrastructure."
USACE remains engaged until conditions stabilize and local agencies determine that federal support is no longer needed.
Rainfall totals released by the National Weather Service showed a record amount of rainfall until just before midnight. Most of Eustis received more than 19 inches of rain; Mount Dora had between 13.5 inches and 17.8 inches of rain. Mount Plymouth recorded just over 10 inches. Tavares had more than 6 inches.
“We had significant flash flooding across Lake County, particularly in Eustis, with multiple vehicle rescues, road closures and infrastructure impacts,” said Milanese.
The Waterman Village community in Mount Dora, has two 40-foot ravines behind its homes that has major damage, and officials have evacuated people from about 20 homes. Two massive ravines opened behind homes, forcing residents to evacuate.
Florida Lieutenant Gov. Jay Collins toured Mount Dora and Eustis on Wednesday after torrential rain washed out roads and flooded homes Sunday night.
More than 17 inches of rain fell in Mount Dora and more than 19 inches in nearby Eustis.
“We are here for what’s going on in Mount Dora and it’s heartbreaking for the community,” said Collins.
“Thank you to the Corps team for being out here, helping us understand this and working together solves problems." Collins lauded the USACE team for their quick response and technical expertise.
Eustis Fire Chief Mike Swanson said he appreciates the Corps of Engineers coming to Lake County to assist and helping the community get back on their feet.
For updates and information on flood response efforts, residents can follow the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District on social media at facebook.com/Jacksonville District or visit www.saj.usace.army.mil
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