Published: April 21, 2009 02:05 pm      

BULLETIN: LAFAYETTE HIT HARD; 240 HOMES AFFECTED BY FLOOD

A total of 240 Lafayette County homes were affected by flood conditions, according to figures released Tuesday by the State Emergency Response Team. Ten homes were destroyed, 19 suffered major damage, 166 sustained minor damage and 45 were inaccessible.

Mike Stone, public information officer for the Florida Division of Emergency Management, said homes may be inaccessible due to trees and other obstacles or debris, such as a partially submerged fence.

Lafayette County Emergency Management Coordinator Alton Scott said when waters have receded emergency officials will complete public damage assessments, including county roads and state and county parks.

Stone said assessment data will be submitted to the Federal Emergency Management Agency to determine whether the county receives federal disaster relief.

Scott said last week he was not aware of floodwaters causing any residents to become trapped in their homes or property.

Numerous roads along the river remained closed as of Tuesday.

Well contamination is also a concern due to floodwaters.

Scott said residents who experience discolored water or odor may have their wells tested by calling the Lafayette County Emergency Operations Center at 386-294-1950. The EOC is providing drinking water to affected residents.