A map illustrates rainfall through Oct. 9 in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew

MAITLAND, Fla., Oct. 11, 2016 — As Hurricane Matthew traveled Florida’s east coast, the St. Johns River Water Management District’s 18-county service area received widespread rain, with the highest rainfall totals experienced in the northern coastal areas of the state. A full report of the storm’s impacts before and immediately after the storm was presented at today’s Governing Board meeting.

“The effects of Hurricane Matthew were felt districtwide,” said St. Johns River Water Management District Executive Director Dr. Ann Shortelle. “Our team has worked hundreds of hours over the recovery period, inspecting levees, structures and public lands. I’m also proud of the level of partnership displayed by our staff to assist local and state governments with recovery efforts, many of which are still underway.”

The rainfall’s distribution is illustrated in the storm’s banding as it traveled Florida’s coast.

  • From Oct. 1 through 9, the highest rainfall totals were recorded in the northern coastal counties.
  • Thursday, Oct. 6 rainfall was heaviest in Central Florida, where Seminole County received the greatest rainfall of 4.37 inches.
  • Friday, Oct. 7, many counties in the coastal north received more than 12 inches of rain, including parts of Nassau, Duval and St. Johns counties.
  • Saturday, Oct. 8, most rainfall was again isolated to the northernmost coastal counties.
  • Counties on the western edge of the district, including Marion with 2.03 inches and Alachua with 1.48 inches, received the lowest calculated rainfall.

County-by-county precipitation reports and other data is available online at hydroconditions report.

The district’s hydrologic data collection program collects, processes, manages and disseminates hydrologic and meteorological data that are used for consumptive use permitting, water shortage management, establishment of minimum flows and levels, water supply planning and management, environmental protection and restoration projects, and operation of district flood control facilities.