SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — As recovery from Hurricane Ian continues, people living in one Geneva neighborhood said they feel abandoned by Seminole County officials as their houses go under.
>>> STREAM CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS LIVE <<<
Residents said they would have gotten out sooner if someone had warned them. They said they’re used to flooding, but usually. it’s only a little water on the road, not having to park their cars a quarter-mile inland.
The county put up road markers ahead of the hurricane, but property owners think they could have shared their predictions as they were doing so.
Resident Mike Thomas said they’d been left to fend for themselves now and before the flood even started.
“Where’s Seminole County?” he asked. “If they’re concerned, why aren’t they here handing out sandbags, helping people save their houses?”
A Channel 9 crew made its way into the floodwaters, which were deep enough to sink mailboxes and rising fast enough for people to choose which car to sacrifice.
Resident Burt Boer used plastic to line his home and protect his belongings from the crashing waves.
“For Irma, (the county) did a fantastic job, but this time they’re a little bit slow getting stuff in place,” he said. “I think they are overwhelmed and underestimated (the hurricane).”
Seminole County officials said eyes have been on the area, and sandbags, food and other supplies are available.
READ: Astor residents deal with record flooding after Hurricane Ian
This browser does not support the video element.
Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.