Published: May 05, 2009 09:18 am      

After the flood, Lafayette getting back to normal

Though some roads in Lafayette County remain submerged, floodwaters are making their way down to normal levels.

"The Suwannee River is slowly going back down to normal," said Lafayette County Emergency Management Coordinator Alton Scott on Monday.

Emergency officials completed public damage assessments to county roads on Friday.

Scott said three paved county roads were affected by flood conditions and 43 unpaved county roads were affected.

Local emergency officials expect to hear from FEMA later this week on whether the county will qualify for federal aid to repair the damages.

President Obama declared a major disaster declaration last week, which means local homeowners and renters may be eligible for federal funds to help with housing needs and necessary expenses. Residents who experienced flood damage may apply for possible emergency federal assistance for temporary housing, transportation, medical expenses, and the repair or replacement of homes and personal property due to flooding. Affected individuals may call 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or go to www.disasterassistance.gov.

A total of 240 Lafayette County homes were affected by flood conditions, according to figures released April 21 by the State Emergency Response Team. Ten homes were destroyed, 19 suffered major damage, 166 sustained minor damage and 45 were inaccessible.