Homeowners along the St. Johns River continue repairing flood damage from Hurricane Milton while preparing for potential future flooding, as the storm’s heavy rains caused significant inland flooding problems beyond the coastal damage.

The flooding turned streets into “raging rapid rivers” according to resident Tanya Crowley, whose property was submerged under several feet of water. Crowley is now using truckloads of mulch to elevate her property for protection.

Neighbor Bob Ray had to wade through floodwaters for weeks just to check his mail. The flooding damaged his home’s tile flooring, bowed out his seawall, and caused his pool to settle by half an inch. Ray has placed valuables on wheels for easier evacuation to higher ground.

A bridge reconstruction project near the affected homes is expected to last through October 2025, raising concerns among residents that construction may worsen flooding problems if another major storm hits. The bridge flooded over during Hurricane Milton.

Some residents say flooding has worsened in recent years. Crowley noted that regular rain now floods her driveway, unlike when she moved to the area six years ago, attributing the change to new developments and bridge construction.

Despite the challenges, residents say living along the St. Johns River remains worthwhile. “It is a lifelong dream for me and many of our neighbors — to live on the St. Johns River,” Ray said. “It’s a beautiful place.”

Crowley plans to continue elevating her property with mulch and plants to create what she calls “sustainable livability” in case future flooding prevents evacuation.

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(Image credit: Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

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