Hi everyone and welcome to the Sheriff's Corner. This week's Corner comes after a busy weekend, which immediately followed a busy and fearful week. For many, hurricane season is often full of fear and uncertainty. As we see hurricanes develop, as they cross the Atlantic we wonder if they are coming to Florida, if they're intended for the East Coast or if they're going to end up in Levy County.
I usually start looking at hurricanes when they are still Tropical Depressions or Tropical Storms. I find myself calling our Emergency Operation Center to see what they know, if they can give me an idea of what the new storm will do. Such was the case this past week when Tropical Storm Henri came our way.
What I noticed was how fast the services here in Levy County came together and very quickly had plans to address what would happen when the storm finally made up its mind about where to come ashore. All of that went smoothly and I came away confident in our counties ability to prepare and react to hurricane events.
I also immediately noticed that everyone who came together knew the real reason for concern. Everyone feared more rain, knowing that so many of our citizens have already been hit by high water and flooding. Everyone directed their thoughts, plans and efforts toward those people who have already suffered as well as the additional people who would be affected by more rain and water. Some of our citizens are already, literally, walking on top of the water table.
This is a huge problem being focused on by everyone from County Commissioners, to the Road Department, Health Department and Sheriff's Office. It's something we must keep at until we overcome the problem. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all. We're truly thankful that this storm passed us by. Please, if you need us call. | 