Flooding concerns growing in Hardee County

And tonight, parts of Hardy County remain underwater after torrential downpours dumped up to 14 inches of rain in the area. Emergency officials say the flooding is rivaling a recent major storm. Fox 13's Carla Byron is in Wauchula with a closer look at the damage and why the worst of the flooding may still be on the way. The river levels and flooding that Hardy County has experienced is similar to those seen during Hurricane Milton. This was at the Pioneer Park boat ramp in Wachula. Emergency officials say they received 12 to 14 inches of rain on the eastern border, where pasture and farmland are, while most of the county received 8 inches that has been collecting into Charlie Creek and the Peace River. Emergency Management Director Lane Schneider says they had to declare a local state of emergency. It really allows us to open up. Some purchasing and things like that, that we can move forward and provide resources. It also shows that we're taking this seriously. And it shows the state as well that we are taking this seriously and we need that help. Four roads are damaged and will require significant repairs. A couple of homeowners reported some water intrusion, but nothing major where evacuations were necessary. The county hasn't seen the peak of the river flooding yet, but it is expected later today. In Hardy County, Carla Byron, Fox 13 News.