BROOKSVILLE — After reaching its fifth-highest crest ever on Sept. 21, the Withlacoochee River fell below flood stage on Wednesday.

Late Wednesday afternoon, the river measured 11.9 feet at the Trilby gauge. Flood stage is 12 feet.

The river had risen to major flood stage at 17.67 feet three weeks ago, about 3 feet shy of the record crest of 20.38 feet on June 21, 1934.

The river has also fallen below flood stage at Croom. On Wednesday afternoon, it measured 8.5 feet. Flood stage at Croom is 9 feet.

Flooding along the river had forced many residents to flee their homes in recent weeks as Hernando County officials issued voluntary evacuation orders.

Times staff