June 1st… 3PM… Guadalupe River Flood at Victoria Info

River level – The latest river level measurement from the National Weather Service is 28.94 feet with a flow of 29,900 cubic feet per second. The river level continues to drop after a crest of 30.19 feet at 4:30 Saturday morning, but at a very slow rate. According to NWS estimates, the water will be near 28.60 feet at midnight tonight and not will drop below 25 feet by June 5th.

2)      Voluntary Evacuation Lifted: The water has drained out of Greens Addition. The voluntary evacuation for the Greens Addition, in effect since Monday, May 25,   has been lifted. Citizens may return to their residences. Residents who evacuated and motorists in general, should NOT drive through any water that is standing in low-lying neighborhood streets.

3)      The American Red Cross Shelter: The American Red Cross shelter will remain open until further notice.

4)        Clean Up and Safety Tips: If your home was affected by the flood waters here are some safety tips and clean-up information.  For more information on where to get clean up supplies, contact the Red Cross at 361-894-1232.

Safety Tips from the County Health Department:

• Do not return home until officials declare it’s safe to do so.
• Before entering the residence, check the exterior for downed power lines, damaged gas lines, foundation cracks, or other damage.
• Keep children and pets away from hazardous sites and flood waters.
• During clean-up, wear protective gear such as rubber gloves and protective clothing.
• Make every effort to limit your contact with flood water due to potential contamination associated with hazardous substances.
• If you come in contact with the contaminated flood water, immediately wash your hands with soap and water before drinking or eating.
• Limit direct contact with contaminated flood water.
• Early symptoms from exposure to contaminated flood water can include: upset stomach, diarrhea, headache or other flu-like symptoms.
• Keep vaccines current.  Contact the Victoria City/County Health Department 361-578-6281.

Clean-Up Tips When Returning to Home: The walls, floors, contents of shelves, and any area affected by the flood should be thoroughly washed and disinfected.  Below is a list of supplies you may need:

• Brooms, mops, brushes, and sponges
• Buckets and hose
• Rubber Gloves
• Rags
• Cleaners/ Disinfectants
• Trash Bags

Browse to the American Red Cross website at http://www.redcross.org  for additional information regarding flood clean-up, or contact the local office at 361-573-2671.

5)       Disposal of Large Household Items: If you have large household items that will need to throw away, contact the City of Victoria- Environmental Services Office at 361-485-3220 for scheduling.

6)      Mosquito Control Measures:  Mosquito control measures are being implemented by the Victoria City/ County Health Department and the City.  However, current flood conditions and standing water increase risk of exposure to mosquitoes that may carry West Nile Virus. The City will begin spraying for mosquitoes tomorrow.C

• Use an approved insect repellent every time you go outside and follow the instructions on the label.  Among the EPA-approved repellents are those that contain DEET.
• Regularly drain standing water, including water collecting in empty cans, tires, buckets, clogged rain gutters and saucers under potted plants.
• Mosquitoes that spread West Nile virus breed in stagnant water.
• Wear long sleeves and pants at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
• Use air conditioning or make sure there are screens on all doors and windows to keep mosquitoes from entering the home.