Recent rains from Tropical Storm Fay have caused severe flooding along various portions of the St. Johns River. The river has overflowed its banks in many places and expanded into the flood plain. This flooded condition has created an immediate danger to vessels transiting the area. Objects previously well above the water and objects previously on dry land have become wholly or partially submerged, creating hazards to navigation. These objects include without limitation, dwellings, electrical and telephone wires, utility poles, trees and stumps, docks and wharfs, boat houses, and sheds. The turbulent and muddy water has caused boats to allide dangerously upon submerged objects without warning. The flood now submerges the accustomed footpaths and handholds. Within these submerged areas, vessel wakes could cause persons to slip and fall, perhaps into the river. Under these circumstances, there is a substantial likelihood of injury or death. Operation of vessels on the waters of the St. Johns River, its associated lakes, and its tributaries from Lake George to State Road 50 presents an immediate danger to vessels and their occupants and to persons in or near the river when the river is at or above flood stage. Based on river flood levels, emergency regulations either exclude or restrict vessel operation to Idle Speed No Wake.