The rainfall from Tropical Storm Debby had a good side.
It restored flow in the Peace River to what it should be at this time of year.
Before the storm arrived, flow in the upper reaches of the river in Polk and Hardee counties was well below average for this time of year.
That meant it was barely suitable for a paddling trip, which is unusual for mid-summer.
There was a similar situation in 2004 before three hurricanes crisscrossed the area.
Meanwhile, Polk County officials announced late Monday that Circle B Bar Reserved has been closed temporarily because of widespread flooding of trails and access roads. No reopening date has been announced.
The popular local environmental venue lies on the shore of Lake Hancock, whose level has been raised to allow water to be stored to replenish flow in the Peace River. The rail system lies in the Banana Creek floodplain.
The weather is predicted to return to normal by mid-week. ,
This weekend one event that might be worth considering is an evening event at The Nature Conservancy’s Tiger Creek Preserve near Babson Park that will allow people to see moths and other night-flying insects.
Contact TNC for more info.