Aftermath of Debby: Extensive Flooding, Downed Trees, Power Lines, Commercial Fire

HERNANDO – Widespread flooding, and downed trees and power lines plagued residents throughout the county last night, and now it's time to begin the cleanup.

Residents along Hernando Beach and the Weeki Wachee River saw the worst flooding around high tide in the early morning hours. There are unconfirmed reports that multiple residences were flooded along the river, but there is no firm assessment on how extensive at this time.

The owners of Lei Lo Tiki Hut Restaurant on Calienta Street stood guard over their restaurant last night, fearing another devastating flood could cause them to close down for weeks. So far, it appears they have weathered the storm fairly well.

There are still numerous road closures around the county (See image) due to flooding.

Unfortunately, several businesses did not fare so well after fire gutted a multiunit commercial building on Spring Hill Drive.

Fire Rescue responded to the 11000 block of Spring Hill Drive around 3:30 a.m. where they discovered flames coming from the roof of the building. Firefighters extinguished the fire within 30 minutes, but officials say the building is a total loss. Bauknight Insurance and 4 Corner Pharmacy are among those businesses destroyed.

It is unknown if the fire was storm-related, as an investigation is still underway.

Emergency Officials are now focusing attention on the eastern part of the county, where they believe the Withlacoochee River may rise above flood stage in the coming days.

Starting tomorrow, sandbags will be available at the Ridge Manor Community Center from 7am to 7pm.

Thankfully, there have been no reports of loss of life or serious injury related to the storm.