Numerous power lines fell throughout Clay County this afternoon but no one was injured.
High winds caused roof damage to two businesses in Keystone Heights. A Chinese restaurant lost part of its roof and a supermarket lost parts of its roof and some stucco facade. Both businesses are still open while repairs are being made, according to Clay County Fire Rescue Chief Frank Ennist.
The Buckman Bridge is closed and will remain so until two unoccupied sailboats can be secured. Ennist said two boats broke loose from their marinas and were banging into the side of the bridge.
Orange Park Fire Chief Ty Silcox said a few trees fell in the town limits and one home was damaged.
A flood warning has been issued for all of the St. Johns River’s Black Creek basin, which is expected to rise to 20 feet by Friday and overflow by Saturday morning. Flood stage is 16 feet; at 19 feet water begins to move into homes.
Law enforcement agencies will recommend voluntary evacuations on Saturday in low-lying areas.
Trash pick up service will be provided on Saturday but not Friday.
In the Clay Electric service area, 1,906 of 72,075 customers were without service at 6 p.m. and 11,129 JEA customers of 55,984 were without power.
Public schools are closed Friday.
Four schools č Orange Park High, Clay High, Keystone Heights Junior-Senior High and Tynes Elementary č are open as shelters.
The Clay County Health Department will offer clinical services Friday at the Bear Run Complex, 3229 Bear Run Blvd., Orange Park.
č Mary Maraghy
It states in the TU that Clay County Trash Service will take place on Friday.