Alafia River at Lithia flood warning extended to Thursday at 7 AM

The National Weather Service in Tampa Bay Ruskin extended its flood warning for the Alafia River at Lithia on Nov. 4 at 8:13 AM. The warning now lasts until Nov. 5 at 7 AM. The earlier end time was Nov. 4 at 7 PM.

Minor flooding is now occurring on the river. The weather service forecasts more minor flooding.

At 7 AM Wednesday, the river stage was 13.1 feet. Flood stage is 13.0 feet. The highest stage in the 24 hours before 7 AM was 13.1 feet.

The weather service now expects a crest of 13.3 feet this afternoon. The earlier forecast called for a crest of 13.1 feet Wednesday morning. The river will then fall below flood stage just after midnight tonight.

At 13.0 feet, water completely covers River Drive and Squirrel Run Way downstream of County Road 640. One home begins to flood at that level. The forecast crest matches a previous crest of 13.3 feet on Aug. 26, 1945.

The weather service says recent heavy rain hit parts of west central Florida. Several rivers in the region will stay in flood stage over the next few days.

If you find a flooded road, turn around. Do not drive around barricades. Do not drive through flooded areas. The weather service says most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Use caution when you walk near riverbanks.

The weather service will issue its next statement at 5 PM Wednesday.