MGN Online TAMPA, Fla. (AP) – A state of emergency has been declared for five counties after more than a week of heavy rainfall in north Florida and the Tampa Bay area caused flooding and other damage. Gov. Rick Scott issued an executive order Thursday calling for the state of emergency in Dixie, Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas and Taylor counties. From July 24 to Aug. 3, the National Weather Service gauged more than 18 inches of rain in parts of Pinellas County, while the Tampa International Airport in Hillsborough County recorded more than 14 inches. Parts of Pasco County have been evacuated after the Anclote River experienced the seventh highest crest on record at more than 25 feet. Meanwhile, the Steinhatchee River, which runs through Taylor and Dixie counties, experienced a top ten record crest at nearly 16 feet.