Peace River Flooding Threatens 60 DeSoto Homes

The Peace River in DeSoto County, Florida, rose above 16 feet into major flood stage after heavy rain, inundating roads, Veterans Memorial Park and the Peace River Campground and forcing evacuations and closures. As many as 60 homes in the River Acres community could be affected, and residents and officials urged people to avoid flooded areas and move themselves and livestock to safety. Wildlife Park staff relocated animals to higher ground, while some riverfront residents used kayaks to reach their properties. The river has crested, but officials expect the water to recede slowly, with flooding and recovery concerns continuing into next week; damage assessments must wait until water levels fall.