PUNTA GORDA, Fla.- Charlotte County is feeling the effects of coastal flooding from Tropical Storm Debby.

Side streets and intersections are under water in the historic district of Punta Gorda. Taylor and Retta Esplanade are blocked off, but most are driving through it any way as the water has receded.

This area is very low lying and at one point Mary St. was under 18 inches of water. A number of side streets are also still under water, but residents aren't surprised. The area has a history of flooding.

The city invested money to improve storm water run off by putting in bigger storm drains, but Debby has created a problem as water has been washing over the sea walls, overwhelming the new storm pipes. Public Works says nothing can be done, but to wait.