Local
Flooding shuts Timucuan preserve, blocks Fernandina streets and beach access
King tides and a nor’easter brought hazardous coastal flooding and strong winds to Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia on Sunday. Closures affected the Timucuan preserve, several Fernandina Beach streets and multiple St. Johns County beach access ramps.
Coastal flooding forced closures across parts of Northeast Florida on Sunday, including the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve, streets in Fernandina Beach and several beach access ramps in St. Johns County.
A coastal flood warning was in effect for the region through Tuesday. Forecasters expected moderate to major tidal flooding and high winds as king tides coincided with a local nor’easter. Flooding was expected to be most severe around high tide, according to First Alert meteorologist Sarah Cantey.
The National Park Service closed the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve starting Sunday, Oct. 25, because of hazardous flooding. The preserve was scheduled to reopen Wednesday, Oct. 28.
In Fernandina Beach, police reported major flooding and closed Front Street and Centre Street through Alachua Street, along with the 700 blocks of Dade and Calhoun streets. Police urged residents not to drive through standing water and to follow closure barricades.
As of 1 p.m. Sunday, St. Johns County had temporarily closed vehicle access at A Street, Matanzas Avenue, Mary Street, Fort Matanzas, Vilano and Porpoise Point. Crescent Beach was designated exit-only. Four-wheel drive was recommended at Ocean Trace and Dondanville.
The closures disrupted access to roads, public spaces and beaches while high tides and wind-driven conditions raised risks for drivers and visitors. Officials urged people to obey barriers and avoid flooded areas.