Severe Flooding Hits Lake County After Record Rainfall

EUStis, Fla. – Lake County officials declared a local state of emergency on Monday after severe flooding struck the region due to torrential rains on Sunday night. Parts of Lake County received over 19 inches of rain, significantly impacting Eustis and Mount Dora, and causing washed-out roads and damaged homes.

The National Weather Service reported nearly 20 inches of rain in specific Eustis areas. “All of the downtown Mount Dora businesses are being affected,” said Megan Milanese, Director of Lake County’s Emergency Management. This includes substantial flooding on Donnelly Street, which was six to eight inches underwater.

Mount Dora Mayor James Homich indicated that around 20 homes were evacuated due to safety concerns. “There are currently homeowners who can’t return until we stabilize the bank behind their houses,” he explained.

At a press conference, Florida Representative Randy Fine assured residents that federal assistance would come despite the ongoing government shutdown. He emphasized the commitment to aid Lake County and Mount Dora as soon as the government reopens.

“We are mobilizing all available city resources to assist residents and businesses in the recovery process,” said Titusville Mayor Connors, whose city saw close to 15 inches of rain. The extreme weather conditions led to widespread reports of flooded streets and uprooted trees across Brevard County as well.

Lake County opened several sandbag sites for residents, with a limit of 10 bags per household. Sites include East Lake Sports Complex and North Lake Regional Park, open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., though they may close earlier if conditions worsen.

Officials urged residents to report property damage to the Citizen’s Information Line, which opens at 1 p.m. Monday. As recovery efforts continue, residents are advised to avoid flooded areas and follow instructions from emergency services.