A Year After Tropical Storm Debby, Suwannee County Officials Preparing for More

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Florida National Guard soldiers used high-water vehicles in 2012 to navigate the Tropical Storm Debby flooding in Live Oak.
Florida National Guard soldiers used high-water vehicles in 2012 to navigate the Tropical Storm Debby flooding in Live Oak.

One North Florida county is making changes to their preparations for a smoother hurricane season this year.

Last year Tropical Storm Debby flooded more than 100 homes and businesses in Live Oak, giving residents a reason to worry about the hurricane season which began on Saturday.

“We have some programs and work through our Community Redevelopment Agency to hopefully alleviate some of the flooding issues we might have in the future,” said Live Oak Mayor Garth Nobles.

Residents can help by keeping their yards clean of debris and by having an emergency plan. Tropical Storm Debby’s damaging effects in Suwannee County in 2012 included extensive flooding, structural damage, and storm-related deaths.

“People just need to be vigilant, they need to pay attention to the weather, be prepared, and have a plan,” Nobles said.

Department heads are continuing to update emergency plans for all weather events, including tornadoes and flooding.

About Ethan Magoc

Ethan is a journalist at WUFT News. He's a Pennsylvania native who found a home reporting Florida's stories. Reach him by emailing emagoc@wuft.org or calling 352-294-1525.

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