Giant Snake Found in Florida Floodwaters After Hurricane Hits

The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office in Brooksville, Florida shared two incredible photos after Hurricane Idalia barreled into the state’s west coast on August 29, 2023. The post aimed to warn residents of the dangers that lurk in the Florida floodwaters, specifically dangerous reptiles. The photos show a massive Eastern diamondback rattlesnake, a highly venomous species. Read on to learn about the dangers of hurricane floodwaters and see the Facebook post at the end!

Impacts of Hurricane Idalia

The category three hurricane brought with it high-speed wind, driving rain, and severe flooding. Idalia pounded Florida’s Big Bend region with winds of 125 miles per hour (mph). Up to 10 inches of rain fell in some places, flooding the land. As many as 300,000 people found themselves without power on the morning the storm made landfall. Thousands were forced from their homes. At least four people lost their lives. This devastating natural disaster threatened humans and animals, alike. Thankfully, many pets and their owners had an opportunity to get to safety.

Animals Affected by the Hurricane

Unfortunately, many wild and pet animals found their lives uprooted, too. The Florida Department of Health issued a warning regarding displaced animals. The warning stated that neither wild nor pet animals should be approached. Storms like Idalia cause animals to become frightened and stressed. In that mindset, even the nicest pets can lash out at strangers.

The photos shared to the sheriff’s office Facebook capture a giant snake taking refuge on a dry spot between the floodwaters on either side of Shoal Line Boulevard after the storm passed. These photos show residents in the area one reason why to avoid moving through the Florida floodwaters at all costs. With many dangerous predators living in Florida, any number of them may be lurking below the surface.

Can Snakes Survive in the Florida Floodwaters?

Yes, without a doubt. Most snakes are very good at swimming, even if they don’t typically spend time in water. In fact, all snakes can swim! That’s directly related to the way they move their bodies. Snakes use four types of movements to go about their day. Basically, they tighten and release the muscles along their body to create motion. Some snakes swim underwater, while others move across the surface of the water.

Floodwaters might catch a snake by surprise, but they can hold their breath anywhere from five minutes to eight hours depending on the species! Since they can swim and hold their breath, snakes can survive a flood, even if it comes on quickly.

What Else is Lurking in the Florida Floodwaters?

Because Florida is home to several species of dangerous reptiles, their presence in the floodwaters is nearly a guarantee. Alligators and snapping turtles are sure to be a threat. Even the invasive and extremely aggressive rock python could be hiding in the water.

Not only are animals in the water dangerous, but pieces of debris are a significant threat. The strong winds of the hurricane lift pieces of broken wood, glass, and metal and throw them elsewhere. The rushing water picks up all this debris. Stepping on any of these broken bits or even brushing against them could cause severe injuries.

Lastly, floodwaters contain gasoline, oil, human waste, bacteria, and other contaminants. Wounds can easily become infected. Even a small scratch could become a big problem if the Florida floodwaters come into contact with it. Residents are encouraged to seek medical attention immediately should this occur.

Check out the Sheriff’s Office Facebook Post Below!

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/JillianCain