BARTOW, Fla. — Right now, the city of Bartow is under a local state of emergency amid concerns that the Peace River could rise to dangerous levels.
It's been more than a week after Hurricane Debby came pouring down on Florida. The city held a community meeting with neighbors on Thursday.
For some, the order brought them back to Hurricane Ian nearly two years ago, when the river rose to significant levels leading to several homes being flooded.
"We're scared," said Felix Atkinson, whose home flooded from Ian.
Bartow's fire chief said water levels are nearing eight feet, meaning any more rain could pose a threat. However he said as of now, the river appears to be making a downturn. Officials hope it stays that way, but still urge residents to be prepared.
"You stay awake at nighttime thinking, you know, 'what's going to happen?'" said Atkinson's wife Debra.
Neighbors packed the Carver Recreation Center and had an opportunity to question city officials and staff.
"Our goal is to make sure we have a plan in place to take care of you," Fire Chief Jay Robinson said during the meeting.
Shelters will be available in case evacuations are needed. In addition, the Red Cross will also be available for support.
"Right now, the river is making a downturn slowly so we're hoping that trend continues," Robinson.
However, the main concern is prevention of the wastewater treatment plant from being flooded. A temporary berm is in place for protection.
Neighbors said they hope the potential flooding won't be as bad this time around.
"If you've never been through one, you don't know, but it's really an eye-opening experience and it's something you never forget," said Felix Atkinson.
The city manager also told neighbors that efforts are being made to secure funding to add more long-term protections to the wastewater plant.