Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister has issued a heartfelt plea for patience from residents as rescue teams tirelessly work through the night to reach those affected by the aftermath of recent storms in Milton. The sheriff emphasized the challenges his team faces, stating, “There are so many trees and power lines down that we have to literally cut our way into these neighborhoods to be able to assess just how damaged they are.”
The sheriff’s remarks come as the community grapples with significant obstacles in accessing flooded areas. “Please be patient with us. These roadways are too dangerous. Coming out here, we had to change our route three different times because of downed power lines,” he explained during an interview with CNN’s Kasie Hunt on Thursday morning.
Currently, Sheriff Chronister’s team is operating primarily on the east side of Hillsborough County, a region historically known for its berry agriculture. This area typically remains relatively dry during storms, but the recent events have left it submerged under 2 to 3 feet of floodwater. The dramatic shift highlights the severity of the situation and the unexpected nature of the storm’s impact.
In the northern part of the county, an area that usually withstands storms without flooding has also experienced unprecedented conditions. The water levels rose alarmingly high at an assisted living facility, necessitating the deployment of airboats for the evacuation of residents. “Out here, they’ve lost power, and they’re standing in 2 to 3 feet of water. As you can imagine, they’re quite traumatized,” Chronister noted, emphasizing the emotional toll the disaster has taken on those affected.
The sheriff’s call for patience extends beyond mere logistics. He urged residents enduring the storm to avoid taking any actions on their own, stressing the inherent dangers. “It’s too dangerous,” he warned. “I understand that everyone is eager to leave, but please, wait for our official all-clear.” His request underscores the importance of safety in the face of chaos and uncertainty.
Sheriff Chronister’s dedication to the community is evident as he reassures residents that the rescue teams are working diligently to ensure everyone’s safety. “Hang tight for just a little bit longer, until we can assess what’s safe and what’s unsafe,” he advised, acknowledging the anxiety and fear many are feeling. His words serve as a reminder of the resilience and solidarity that can emerge during challenging times.
As the rescue operations continue, the community remains on high alert, waiting for updates and the assurance that it is safe to return to normalcy. The collaboration among local authorities, emergency responders, and residents is crucial in navigating the aftermath of this disaster. The sheriff’s message of patience and caution resonates deeply, as the community comes together to support one another in these trying times.
In conclusion, Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister’s appeal for patience reflects not only the immediate challenges faced by rescue crews but also the broader need for community solidarity and cooperation. As they navigate through the debris and assess the damage, residents are reminded to prioritize safety and heed official guidance. The path to recovery may be long, but with patience and resilience, the community will emerge stronger from this ordeal.
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