APOPKA, Fla. – News 6 headed out to Heineger Lake near Apopka on Thursday, where a neighbor described the water levels as “abnormal.”
That neighbor told News 6 that she’s seen the water levels at the lake steadily rise over the past few days, largely thanks to the high volumes of rain that have swept through the region.
“But she’s even more worried about flooding closer to home,” News 6 Community Correspondent Paul Dolan explained.
While rising water levels at Heineger Lake are a cause for concern, a nearby neighbor said she’s more worried about the water that’s now pooling close to her backyard. (WKMG-TV 2026)
The water pooling behind her home reportedly reached as deep as 6 inches, sparking worry about the proximity.
But that wasn’t the only area of concern.
Dolan also responded to Apopka’s Lake Ruden, near Chick-fil-A, which also saw the water much higher than normal.
“You’ll have periods of time — like right now, for example — 15, 20 minutes where it’s not raining at all,” Dolan said. “But then, all of a sudden, for 15, 20, 30 minutes or even longer, there will be nonstop rain.”
[RELATED: Take a look as Dolan examines flooding at Lake Ruden]
The flooding may not come as a surprise for some, as a flood watch is now in effect for all of Central Florida.
Rounds of heavy rain are expected to keep developing and move along a stalled front across the region. Rainfall rates at times could exceed 2-4 inches per hour. The ground remains saturated from days of persistent, heavy rainfall.
The highest chance for flooding will be in highly developed areas with poor drainage.
A flood watch means that conditions are favorable for flooding. If you encounter flooded roadways, do not drive through them. Remember the saying turn around don’t drown.
The unsettled weather pattern continues through at least the start of the weekend.
Copyright 2026 by WKMG ClickOrlando – All rights reserved.