Forecasters say the river is expected to rise to a minor flood stage over the weekend, according to county officials. Currently, Withlacoochee is reportedly at 11 feet and will likely rise a foot.

Minor flood stage for the Withlacoochee River near US 301 and Trilby Road is 12 feet, and water levels on Thursday morning stayed consistently between 12 and 12.1 feet.

The county says the Withlacoochee River is set to reach major flood stage by Oct. 18. People who evacuated are being offered shelter at the Sumter County Fairgrounds.

Download the SkyTower Radar app Sign up for FOX 13’s daily newsletter Withlacoochee River rapidly rising, evacuation orders still in effect for some Hernando County residents ...

IF YOU GO The Third Annual Mother's Day Powwow will be May 6-8 at the Withlacoochee River Park near Dade City. Hours are 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday.