Community Corner

Flooding Forces Valrico Residents to Move Cars to Higher Ground

Tropical Storm Debby caused some of the worst flooding ever seen by longtime residents of River Drive off Lithia-Pinecrest Road in Valrico.

The Janusz family of River Road off Lithia-Pinecrest Road in Valrico have lived in their home for seven years and say they've never seen the flooding this bad.

"I understand it does flood here about every eight years," said Josh Janusz as he moved his cars to higher land Monday morning in the wake of Tropical Storm Debby. He said his front yard had about a foot of water flooding it and he expects it to rise another 2 to 3 feet.

"I don't remember it ever being this high," said Sheila Janusz.

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Meanwhile, Hillsborough County workers had posted a "Road Under Water" sign along River Road, and residents along the road began moving their vehicles up the road in anticipation of further flooding.

"You don't want to go down this road," said one neighbor who asked not to be identified. "I've lived here 23 years, so I know just where to cross the water. But anyone who's unfamiliar with the road will get stuck."

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