‘You just kind of wait it out:’ Astor residents face lingering flood concerns

Nearly a week after severe weather brought heavy rain to Central Florida, the effects of flooding remain visible along the St. Johns River, leaving some Astor residents concerned about rising water, changing conditions and what could happen next.Although water levels have been slowly receding, residents say the threat isn’t over. Flooding in other areas, including Brevard County, has also raised concerns about what changing conditions could mean for communities upstream along the river.For Pam Russo, who lives along the St. Johns River, even small changes in weather conditions can make a difference.Russo says wind direction can influence how water moves toward nearby homes, making an already stressful situation even more unpredictable.“So it’ll come this way. But if the wind’s pushing back this way, then it’s, that’s what’s going to hurt us,” Russo explained.Floodwaters Bring More Than Rising WaterRusso says she’s also keeping an eye on what’s happening upstream.She’s concerned about f