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TS Cindy: Blackwater River State Forest Reports Damage And Closures
June 23, 2017
Tropical Storm Cindy caused significant flooding throughout the western portion of Blackwater River State Forest. Numerous major roads remain closed as flood waters continue to rise in area streams and rivers. The campground at the Coldwater Horse Stables will remain closed until Monday, June 26 as flood waters from Coldwater Creek continue to flow into the campground.
“Most of Blackwater River State Forest received substantial rainfall prior to Tropical Storm Cindy. The additional 6 to 12 inches of rain immediately caused streams, rivers and road ditches to overflow. The ground was already saturated, so we experienced significant flooding and road damage throughout the western portion of the state forest” said David Smith, Operations Administrator for Blackwater. “Although floodwaters continue to recede from many of the roads, many of the creeks and rivers rose another 8-12 inches today, preventing reopening of many forest bridges and the closure of the Coldwater campground.”
Currently only the Coldwater campground will be closed due to flooding. All other recreational facilities and campgrounds will remain open through the weekend.
Portions of several major roads in Blackwater River State Forest were closed due to severe flood damage or high water levels on the bridges. The following major roads are partially closed due to flood damage or high water: Bryant Bridge Road, Deaton Bridge Road, Charlie Foster Road, Bud Bass Road, Gordon Land Road, Red Rock Road, Indian Ford Road, Simmons Road, Pleasant Home Road, Melvin Holley Road and Mattie Kennedy Road.
Barricades have been placed on roads too dangerous for vehicular traffic. The public is urged to heed the warnings for these areas. “The Florida Forest Service has only been able to inspect the major forest roads at this time. Barricades were placed on roads and bridges deemed unsafe for public use. These barricades will be removed after the areas are inspected to ensure public safety” added Smith. “Many of the smaller access roads and trails are inaccessible at this time and the public is urged to refrain from using these roads. People visiting Blackwater River State Forest should only drive on the paved roads until conditions improve.”
Florida Forest Service personnel, in cooperation with local county personnel will continue to monitor road conditions within and around Blackwater River State Forest. Roads and bridges will be reopened when conditions improve.
Pictured: Horse Stables Bridge in the Blackwater State Park. Courtesy photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
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