Several Roads and Organizations are Closed in Crystal River

Several potential tornadoes have caused significant damage within the City of Crystal River overnight and into early Thursday morning.

City hall and all City facilities and parks will be closed on Thursday while safety and damage assessments take place. City leadership and public safety began responding to the event at approximately 2:00 a.m.

The intersection of Highway 19 and Highway 44 in the City of Crystal River was significantly impacted by downed powerlines and has been closed. They will remain closed until further notice. Many local streets are impassable at this time. Please avoid driving on streets that have been impacted by the storm.

Approximately 2,500 customers are currently without power throughout the area. City sewer facilities have been damaged and are being assessed and repaired at this time.

City waste collection services will be suspended for October 12, but are anticipated to resume on Friday, October 13.

The Red Cross is responding to the area, and additional information will be shared when it is available.

There is a significant concern for flooding during high tide at approximately 4:00 p.m. We encourage our waterfront residents to be vigilant and stay aware.

The Citrus County Chamber of Commerce has closed its offices, however employees are working behind the scenes to assist Crystal River residents and businesses. The Fire Up Citrus event is canceled for tonight and will be rescheduled.

Additional emergency updates can be found at:

– Citrus County Sheriff’s Office
– Citrus County BOCC
– City of Crystal River

For more information visit the City of Crystal River, visit the City’s website, www.crystalriverfl.org, or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cityofcrystalriver.