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Hurricane Debby, the fourth named storm of the Atlantic hurricane season, dumped more than a foot of rain on Sarasota and Manatee counties as it passed, eventually making landfall in Florida's Big Bend on Monday morning.
Sarasota and Manatee counties are still feeling the effects Monday morning and forecasters said the rain and flooding will continue. Manatee County rescued dozens from homes threatened by floodwaters, while these photos show some of Debby's aftermath in Sarasota and Manatee counties.
See below for the latest updates on flooding, cancellations and closures, and what you need to know about the aftermath of Hurricane Debby in Sarasota and Manatee as we continue updates throughout the day.
6:30 p.m.: National Weather Service data: Sarasota, Manatee counties had the most rainfall across 14-county region
Sarasota and Manatee counties had the highest three-day rain totals from Hurricane Debby among the 14 counties covered by the National Weather Service in Ruskin.
Lakewood Ranch in Manatee County had 16.56 inches. The highest total in Sarasota County was 16.23 inches.
In comparison, Lake Suzy in southern DeSoto County had 3.34 inches and Fort Myers in Lee County had 8.42.
The weather service said though Debby is moving north away from Florida, rain bands will continue to move through the area through Tuesday with some gusty winds possible.
Thousands remain without power in Sarasota, Manatee
About 7,630 Florida Power & Light customers remained without power in Sarasota County Monday evening, according to figures last updated at 5 p.m. by the power company. That is a reduction from about 8,640 FPL customers who did not have power in Sarasota at about 10:45 a.m. on Monday morning.
Another 1,800 FPL customers were without power in Manatee County. That is down from about 4,200 FPL customers at about 10:25 a.m. on Monday morning.
5:45 p.m.: Manatee County reports 35 water rescues, hundreds of emergency calls
Manatee County reported 35 water rescues Monday resulting in 186 individuals being safely brought to higher ground. These rescues have been a collaborative effort between emergency responders, including firefighters, police officers and specialized water-rescue teams. A shelter was opened at Virgil Mills Elementary (7200 69th St. E, Palmetto) to add to the two previously opened prior to the storm’s arrival.
The county's 311 Call Center has been taking calls from concerned residents, receiving over 1,400 calls in the last 24 hours. Since Midnight today, an additional 782 emergency calls and 900 non-emergency calls have come into the Emergency Call Center, reflecting the ongoing urgency and need for assistance.
"We are facing an unprecedented weather event with Hurricane Debby," said Jodie Fiske, Manatee County Public Safety Director. "The safety of our residents is our top priority, and we are doing everything in our power to respond effectively to this crisis. I commend the heroic efforts of our emergency responders and the resilience of our community during this challenging time."
After several locations throughout Manatee County surpassed the 25- to 100-year flood levels and record-breaking rainfall was reported, three plugs at the auxiliary spillway designed to automatically keep Lake Manatee at a manageable level successfully performed their duties. As each plug was engaged, a corresponding IPAWS geo-targeted message alerted citizens of potential property impacts. Out of an abundance of caution, citizens were requested to seek higher ground as high-water vehicles and transport were staged at key locations.
As the impacts of winds dissipate and if it’s safe to do so, residents are encouraged to report damage to the county. the The reporting tool, which can be accessed by going to mymanatee.org/ReportDamage, allows residents to enter information into an online form regarding damage they see within the county.
5 p.m.: Sarasota County offices to remain closed Tuesday, rescues continuing
Sarasota County announced the county offices will remain closed through Tuesday, Aug. 6, to allow for staff to focus on recovery efforts and emergency operations.
More from Sarasota County: An evacuation center for those impacted by Tropical Storm Debby opened at 5 p.m., Monday, Aug. 5, at Sarasota Technical College, 4748 S. Beneva Road, Sarasota. The county stressed that the shelter is for those who have their homes because of flooding or have been impacted firsthand by the flooding events.
Those requiring transportation assistance to the evacuation center may call 311 to arrange pickup. Do not walk or drive through flooded waters. To see a list of supplies to bring to an evacuation center, visitscgov.net/beprepared.
Members of the Sarasota County Fire Department continue to conduct flood response operations in the most heavily impacted areas of Sarasota County with a focus near Phillippi Creek. Members of SCFD are being assisted by the Florida National Guard and Florida Urban Search and Rescue Task Force Six are going house to house to ensure that residents are safe and have access to resources as needed. Sarasota County Fire Department has responded to 495 total calls for service since 8 p.m. Sunday.
In an effort to assess the damage to homes and businesses as a result of Tropical Storm Debby, residents are encouraged to complete this voluntary survey. To fill out the survey, please visit:https://loom.ly/MpVOZsc. If you need assistance filling out the form, please contact 311.
Curbside collections will resume on Tuesday, Aug. 6, for streets that are accessible to collection vehicles. There will be a one-day shift to the regular collection schedule customers
Sarasota County Public Utilities staff are currently working on emergency calls only. Due to high flows at the Central County Wastewater Treatment Facility caused by Tropical Storm Debby, the filters at the plant exceeded capacity for a short period of time. During this time, 500 gallons of partially treated wastewater spilled on site. Cleanup and notifications are proceeding per protocol. No surface waters were impacted, and no sampling is necessary. Crews are actively working on spills throughout the county in Siesta Key, Gulf Gate, Linwood, Longwood and Nokomis.
4 p.m.: Sarasota Police Department says more than 500 people have been rescued from flooded areas
The Sarasota Police Department has been coordinating the rescue of people trapped by floodwaters, largely from the record-high levels of Philippi Creek, with the help of multiple local law enforcement agencies.
"Approximately 500 residents were safely transported from flooded homes to higher ground," reads a recent SPD social media post.
The rescues are ongoing, especially as more rain is expected to come into the area.
3:30 p.m.: Sarasota County will open an emergency evacuation center for those impacted by Tropical Storm Debby
Sarasota County announced at 3:20 p.m. that it would open an emergency evacuation center for those impacted by Tropical Storm Debby. It will open at 5 p.m. at Sarasota Technical College, 4748 S Beneva Road, Sarasota.
"Those requiring transportation assistance to the evacuation center may call 311 to arrange pickup. Do not walk or drive through flooded waters," reads the release.
2:15 p.m.: Can an armadillo swim? This one was caught on video paddling across a flooded Sarasota street after Tropical Storm Debby
This video by Lakewood Ranch resident John Annis shows that armadillos can swim if they want to get across a street in Lakewood Ranch flooded by Tropical Storm Debby.
1:30 p.m.: Sunshine Skyway Bridge remains closed
The Sunshine Skyway Bridge closed Sunday due to high winds from Tropical Storm Debby and it remains closed today. No word on when it might reopen.
1 p.m.: Manatee County announces "strategic release" of water from Lake Manatee
Manatee County announced that officials have determined "that a strategic release of water from Lake Manatee is necessary. This decision, made in full cooperation with supporting agencies, aims to manage water levels and ensure public safety."
High water vehicles and transport units have been strategically positioned at key locations downstream of the Manatee Dam. Road closures are in effect and will remain so until conditions are safe for travel. Residents are urged to relocate for their safety, the announcement said.
Public Safety Director Jodie Fiske emphasized the importance of community cooperation during this time, stating, "The strategic release of water from Lake Manatee is a precautionary measure to mitigate the impact of the recent heavy rainfall and to ensure the Manatee Dam remains in good structural condition. Our priority is the safety and well-being of our residents. We urge everyone to follow these alerts to stay safe."
"Residents who receive a targeted IPAWS alert are encouraged to leave for a nearby shelter. In the event of a life-threatening situation, individuals should dial 911 immediately. For information on transport sites, residents can call 311.
"Additional strategic releases may be necessary to maintain safe water levels in Lake Manatee as storm surge and rising tides continue to pose challenges."
For further updates and information, monitor mymanatee.org/storm.
Sarasota Schools says offices and schools closed today, expects normal operations Tuesday
Sarasota Schools said on social media it expects to resume normal operations on Tuesday after being closed Monday because of Hurricane Debby impacts.
Noon: Sarasota Police Department evacuating people from homes near Philippi Creek due to heavy flooding
According to various reports, the Sarasota Police Department is using rescue vehicles to evacuate people from homes in Pinecraft along Philippi Creek due to intense flooding from Tropical Storm Debby.
The city of Sarasota said on social media the rescues are underway in the area near Bahia Vista and Tuttle roads. Sarasota police are coordinating with Sarasota County Emergency Management with high water rescue vehicles to relocate displaced residents. The city and police did not say where they were taking evacuees.
Sarasota County Fire Chief David Rathbun said in Monday morning statement that the area received twice as much rain as expected. The Philippi Creek area is experiencing heavy flooding.
Rathbun said county officials are concerned about a midday high tide and four feet of anticipated storm surge.
"The tributaries are full, and the water is not able to run off," Rathbun said.
This story is developing.
North Port candidate forum postponed
A North Port City Commission candidate forum hosted by Team North Port CAN that had been scheduled for Monday night at the Shannon Staub Public Library was postponed.
Pan Tokarz, one of the founders of North Port CAN, said the rescheduled forum will only include candidates for the North Port District 2 race, which includes incumbent Barbara Langdon and challengers Cheryl Cook and Josh Smith Jr. and will be on the Aug. 20 ballot and not the District 1 and 3 races, which are not on the primary ballot.
11:10 a.m.: Sarasota County Sheriff's Office reports Fruitville Road impassable east of I-75 due to Hurricane Debby flooding
10:30 a.m.: Sarasota County and City of Sarasota updates on closures and Hurricane Debby aftermath
Both Sarasota City and County declared states of emergency as they assessed the fallout from Hurricane Debby.
All administrative offices and recreational facilities are closed on Monday. Garbage, recycling, and yard waste pick up is delayed one day.
The City Commission meeting previously scheduled for Monday morning will now be on Thursday at 9 a.m.
Sarasota County also closed its normal operations on Monday due to additional rain and flooding. Those who live in unincorporated parts of the county should expect delays to garbage, recycling and yard waste collection throughout the remainder of the week, the county announced Monday morning. Sarasota Libraries are also closed on Monday.
The Sheriff's Office is responding to vehicles stuck in flooded roads throughout the county.
All Sarasota County residents have been advised to stay off the roads if possible. The city is monitoring flooding of Benjamin Franklin Drive at Lido Key and at Ken Thompson Park.
A county alert urged residents not to open manhole covers, to avoid the beaches and waters, and not to drive in flooded conditions.
10:20 a.m.: City of Venice updates on road closures and Hurricane Debby aftermath
The City of Venice issued a local State of Emergency Monday morning and released a notice detailing changes to services, closures and flooded roads:
City Hall and other City facilities are open to the public today, with the exception of the Venice Museum, which is closed.
FACILITY & SERVICE CLOSURES:
No trash, recycling or yard waste pickups for City of Venice customers today, Monday, Aug. 5, as the Sarasota County Landfill is closed.
The Venice Fishing Pier remains closed.
Humphris Park at the South Jetty remains closed.
City Utility customers are encouraged to limit your water usage when possible.
The Venice Municipal Airport Meet and Greet scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 6 at City Hall has been postponed until further notice. Date TBD.
ROADWAYS & FLOODING: The following local roadways are experiencing flooding:Harbor Dr. heading to Caspersen BeachGolden Beach Blvd. from Everglades to Villas Dr.Villas Dr. from Golden Beach Blvd. to Hibiscus, Gardenia, Flamingo drivesPark Blvd.The EsplanadeTarpon Center Dr.Gene Green Rd.Parkdale Dr.Pinebrook Rd.
Additionally, the Harbor Dr. and E. Venice Ave. intersection traffic light is out. Treat the intersection as a 4-way stop and be sure to make eye contact with other motorists before proceeding.
Residents in low-lying areas may experience road flooding until the storm surge recedes. Do not attempt to drive or wade through flooded streets. Flood waters can present unseen hazards to both vehicles and individuals.
9:50 a.m.: Manatee County rescues 44 people from flooding; records more than 14 inches of rain due to Hurricane Debby
Manatee County revealed in a release that Sarasota Bradenton Airport recorded a record amount of rain and areas near Parrish received over 14 inches.
The county has also rescued a total of 32 adults, 12 children and 13 pets rescued from 14 homes in high water rescues from the Center Lake area.
Two shelters are open in Manatee County: Miller Elementary School (601 43rd St W, Bradenton, FL 34209) and Nolan Middle School (6615 Greenbrook Blvd, Bradenton, FL 34202).
Here is the full release:
Widespread flooding has been reported across Manatee County following the passage of Hurricane Debby.Nearly 12” of rain were reported at the SRQ Airport weather station – a record daily rainfall. Manatee County rain gauges have recorded totals ranging from 4” in the eastern portion of the county to over 14” in the southwest part of the county and areas near Parrish.“Assets are in place to perform any necessary rescues, but they will need room to work,” said Manatee County Public Safety Director Jodie Fiske. “We are urging everyone to stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary. We do not need disaster tourists.”Residents and visitors are reminded that direct messaging from both Manatee County and the National Weather Service are important and should be heeded immediately. They should call 3-1-1 for flooding issues. 9-1-1 is the number if you’re stuck.As of this morning there have been a total of 32 adults, 12 children and 13 pets rescued from 14 homes in high water rescues from the Center Lake area (Whitfield/Prospect) and Villa Del Sol MHP on 15th St. E.It is anticipated that there will be more rescues throughout the day today as waters will continue to rise. Because of the flooding, the Manatee County Landfill on Lena Rd. will be closed, and trash collection canceled for Monday. Trash collection days will shift one day later this week (e.g. Monday's collection on Tuesday, Tuesday's collection Wednesday, etc.).Two shelters are now open. Miller Elementary School (601 43rd St W, Bradenton, FL 34209) and Nolan Middle School (6615 Greenbrook Blvd, Bradenton, FL 34202) are available for evacuees. Other locations may be opened as needed.For up-to-date information about evacuation levels, shelters, and sandbag locations, please visit mymanatee.org/storm.For more information on Manatee County Government, visitmymanatee.orgor call (941) 748-4501. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @manateegov.
9:45 a.m.: Fruitville Road in Sarasota down to two lanes due to flooding closed due to flooding
According to the Sarasota Police Department, Fruitville Road has been closed due to increased flooding in the area.
8:30 a.m.: List of Sarasota County Roads closed due to flooding; county asks people to stay off roads
Sarasota County is asking people to remain home and stay off roads as heavy rains and flooding continue throughout the county.
"Due to the additional rain overnight causing flooding on roads and in neighborhoods throughout Sarasota County, we are encouraging residents and visitors to stay off the roads, today, Mon. Aug 5. Please avoided flooded road, downed power lines and low lying areas that have additional flooding. Visit scgov.net for more information."
Manatee County has listed 25 roads closed due to flooding, which can be seen here.
The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office has posted an incomplete list of roads currently affected by flooding:
- Pinebrook Rd at Edmundson Rd
- River Rd at Center Rd
- McIntosh Rd south of King Richard
- Beneva Rd south of Legacy Trail
- McIntosh Rd at Bahia Vista St
- Clark Rd at Beneva Rd
- Clark Rd at Vamo Rd
- Beneva Rd between Clark and 41
- Fruitville east of I-75 to Oakford
- Myrtle Ave at Tuttle Ave
- Bee Ridge at Honore Ave
- Center Gate Blvd at Wilkinson Rd
- Swift Rd at Wilkinson Rd
- Proctor Rd at Honore Ave
- Bee Ridge Rd at Center Gate Blvd
- Tuttle Ave at Southgate Circle
- Northgate Blvd
- Siesta Key
- Tuttle Ave at Bahia Vista St
- Proctor Rd at Suncoast Technical School
8:20 a.m.: Sarasota Bradenton International Airport and Tampa International Airport both open, but delays and cancelations abound after Hurricane Debby
According to Rick Piccolo, President and CEO of Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, there was no damage to SRQ besides "a few roof leaks."
"Nine flight cancellations for today, but some flights are operating," said Piccolo. "People should check with their airline for any updates.“
TPA remains open, but "due to Hurricane Debby, delays and cancelations are expected to continue Monday," according to the airport's social media. "Passengers are urged to continue checking with their airlines for the latest flight information, as they determine flight schedules, not the airport."
7 a.m.: See a list of Sarasota and Manatee area government offices and services closed Monday due to Hurricane Debby
After receiving more than a foot of rain in the past 24 hours across the area, some government offices will be closed on Monday, including the City of Sarasota, the Town of Longboat Key, City of North Port, Manatee County and Sarasota County.
6:30 a.m.: Some areas of Sarasota County have received over a foot of rain in 24 hours due to Hurricane Debby
According to the Sarasota County Water Atlas, some parts of Sarasota County have received almost a foot of rain within the past 24 hours. A station in the Arlington Park neighborhood has recorded 11.28 inches of rain and one in Nokomis has registered 11.41 inches.
At 2 a.m. Monday morning, Sarasota BradentonInternationalAirport had recorded just over 12 inches of rain in the past 24 hours.
According to the National Weather Service, that rain is likely to continue through Monday.
"After Debby makes landfall today, winds and rain will gradually subside into tonight...however, several feeder bands of rain and isolated thunderstorms will persist with locally heavy rain still possible, which will likely continue into Tuesday," according to the latest forecast.
A Tornado Watch is also in effect for Sarasota and Manatee counties until 4 p.m.
11 p.m.: Debby intensifies to hurricane; National Weather Service gauge shows Sarasota-Bradenton with some of heaviest rainfall
The National Hurricane Center said Debby has intensified from a tropical storm to a hurricane with sustained winds of 75 mph as it continued toward the north Florida coast.
The weather service's gauges at the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport showed a wind gust late Sunday night of 48 mph and before midnight reported a rainfall total of 9.52 inches over the previous nine hours. The figure must be confirmed by the weather service, but color-coded rainfall distribution maps showed some of the heaviest rains from Debby falling on the Sarasota area and the coastal Manatee County.
8 p.m.: National Weather Service says local flooding could continue into Monday
The National Weather Service's Sunday night update says storm surge, coastal flooding and flooding impacts will linger throughout the day Monday.
A Storm Surge Warning continues from north Florida south to Manatee County with levels of 3 to 5 feet to the middle of Longboat Key. Rising water will begin soon, forecasters said.
A Storm Surge Watch remains for Sarasota, Charlotte and Lee counties, where surge flooding is ongoing, and levels 2 to 4 feet above ground level are expected.
Heavy rainfall continues. Flash flooding is possible, especially in coastal counties where water drainage will be difficult due to storm surge. River rises are happening, or will happen soon.
Tornadoes remain possible through tomorrow morning, and a tornado watch remains in effect. The worst wind/rain/tornado impacts will continue into Monday morning, with gradual improvement is expected after that from south to north through the day.
As of 5 p.m., Debby was about 100 miles due west of Tampa Bay. Rotating bands moving onshore continue to produce occasional tornadoes and flooding rain.
The highest wind gust reported in the area was 45 mph in Venice.
The winds are expected to abate about 6 a.m. Monday in Sarasota County and 8 a.m. in Manatee, but storm surge will linger throughout the day, the weather service said.
The rainfall total by Sunday evening in Sarasota of 6.51 inches is already a record.
Two tornadoes have been confirmed, along with one waterspout, from Debby.
7 p.m.: Manatee County warns of flood risks
Manatee County officials are providing residents in high-risk areas with warnings about the increased possibility of flooding as Tropical Storm Debby continues to affect the area. Flash Flood warnings have been issued by the National Weather Service county-wide. In addition, direct emergency messaging for residents in specific flood-prone areas have been broadcast as rain totals topped six inches in many locations and tidal inundation is also threatened.“This is a situation of steady rain compounded by the tides, said Manatee County Public Safety Director Jodie Fiske. “We are taking the actions now because of what could occur overnight tonight and into early tomorrow.”Residents and visitors are reminded that direct messaging from both Manatee County and the National Weather Service are important and should be heeded immediately. Two shelters are now open. Miller Elementary School (601 43rd St W, Bradenton) and Nolan Middle School (6615 Greenbrook Blvd, Bradenton) are available for evacuees. Other locations may be opened as needed.
For up-to-date information about evacuation levels, shelters, and sandbag locations, visitmymanatee.org/storm.
Sarasota County declares local state of emergency
Sarasota County has declared a local state of emergency, according to a social media post. The action authorizes spending public funds to repair damage caused by Tropical Storm Debby.
The county also said it plans to return to normal operations Monday. Staff will assess facilities for storm impacts and update any interruptions at scgov.net.
Frequent gusts to tropical storm force will be possible within rain bands through Monday, the county noted. High tides early morning on Monday, Aug. 5 are the most critical for potential flooding. A reminder that Sarasota County is urging residents to stay off the roads and remain in a safe location until the storm passes. Coastal areas may experience flooding caused by excessive rainfall.
According to a Sarasota County update:
Residential solid waste collection for residents living in unincorporated Sarasota County will continue as scheduled on Monday, Aug. 5. There may be some commercial collection delays pending accessibility in storm-impacted areas.
Manasota Key Road at the north end of Blind Pass Beach is underwater and closed. A significant amount of the smaller rocks used for shoreline stabilization are on the road.
Public Works has shut down North Casey Key Road as it is unsafe for vehicle travel. There is also some road damage in this area. Residents cannot get on or off North Casey Key at this time. The county will evaluate the road once the storm passes and it is safe to do so.
The docks at Indian Mound Park are underwater. For all #SRQCounty current parks status reports, visit SarasotaCountyParks.com.
Sarasota County has closed the road leading into Casperson Beach due to erosion.
County Public Works crews are reporting that most roadways are under water throughout Siesta Key. Motorists should avoid this area.
North Beach Road on Siesta Key is covered with about a foot of sand. County crews plan to clear the road once the storm passes.
6 p.m.: Rainfall totals about 6.5" for Sarasota-Bradenton; about 2,000 without power in Sarasota, Manatee counties
As of 6 pm Sunday, the area around the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport in north Sarasota County had seen 6.49 inches of rain in the last 24 hours, according to the National Weather Service in Ruskin. Venice had 4.52 inches in the same period, according to the NWS.
Power outages in the Sarasota/Manatee area slightly increased compared to this morning, with 1,487 reported to FPL in Sarasota County as of 6 pm Sunday. In Manatee County, FPL's outage map showed 571 outages.
5 p.m.: Tropical Storm Debby drops more than 6 inches of rain; tornado warning issued
Tropical Storm Debby was 120 miles west of Tampa at 5 p.m. Sunday and still bringing heavy rain as it moves north about 12 mph toward an expected landfall in north Florida about midday Monday. Maximum sustained winds are near 65 mph.
The storm had dumped more than 6 inches of rain at the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport in about nine hours, according to the National Weather Service. The highest wind gust recorded at the airport was 43 mph. The rain is expected to continue as rain bands rotate around the storm's center.
The National Weather Service issued a tornado warning until 5:30 p.m. for southeastern Manatee County, southeastern Sarasota, northwestern Charlotte and western DeSoto. A severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near Port Charlotte moving north.
According to the National Hurricane Center, a gradual decrease in Debby's forward speed with a turn toward the northeast and east is expected on Monday and Tuesday. On the forecast track, the center will move across the northeastern Gulf of Mexico through tonight. Debby is then expected to move slowly across northern Florida and southern Georgia Monday and Tuesday.
Rapid strengthening is forecast, and Debby is expected to become a hurricane tonight, with additional strengthening likely. Weakening is expected on Monday and Tuesday after Debby moves inland.
As of 3 p.m., Sunday, all streets in downtown Punta Gorda both east and west of U.S. 41 were closed until further notice due to flooding. The Sunseeker resort boardwalk is closed and will reopen around noon Monday.
2:30 p.m.: More reports of flooding and closed roads in Sarasota, Bradenton due to Tropical Storm Debby
Various local governments are reporting road closures due to flooding from Tropical Storm Debby. These include Casey Key Road; Ben Franklin Dr. on Lido Key; Harbor Drive at South Brohard in Venice; and many more. See below for some details. According to the National Weather Serivce, 3.67" of rain has fallen in the last six hours at the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport. The highest wind gust reported there was 35 mph early this afternoon.
1 p.m.: Sarasota city police, county warn of street flooding
Sarasota Police said on social media that Benjamin Franklin Drive is flooding near the Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach, and Ken Thompson Park is also seeing flooding. Barricades are installed and police said they're providing traffic control. They advised people to avoid the area.
Sarasota County officials reported that most roadways are underwater on Siesta Key, and that North Beach Road on Siesta has about a foot of sand.
12:30 p.m.: Manatee County warns it's 'not a regular thunderstorm'
Manatee County's emergency operations center held a press conference to warn people against complacency in the face of potential flooding.
Manatee County Public Safety Director Jodie Fiske said the area still expects to see 6 to 12 inches of rain and those in low-lying areas should be aware of floods.
"This is not just a regular afternoon thunderstorm," she said. "It is a marathon, not a sprint."
Fiske added that the county has not shut off utilities to Anna Maria Island, and also urged residents to not try to drive through flooded streets.
U.S. Congressman Vern Buchanan urged the county's residents to remain vigilant, adding that "storms have a mind of their own" sometimes and can turn for the worst.
"Obviously you plan for the worst and hope for the best. That's what this team in Manatee County has done," Buchanan said.
11 a.m.: Tropical Storm Debby strengthens, Storm Surge Warning issued for Longboat Key and Manatee County
As Tropical Storm Debby slowly makes its way northwest in the Gulf of Mexico, the National Hurricane Center has issued a Storm Surge Warning from the middle of Longboat Key north to Tampa Bay.
"A Storm Surge Warning means there is a danger of life-threatening inundation, from rising water moving inland from the coastline, during the next 36 hours in the indicated locations," according to the NHC.
Sarasota County is still expected to see 2-4 feet of storm surge, but that has increased in Manatee County to 2-5 feet.
According to the NHC: "Maximum sustained winds have increased to near 65 mph (100 km/h) with higher gusts. Rapid strengthening is forecast, and Debby is expected to become a hurricane by tonight before it reaches the Florida Big Bend coast."
The National Weather Service has also issue a tornado watch for Sarasota, Manatee and much of the rest of the state until 8 p.m. Sunday.
A tornado warning for was issued for southeastern DeSoto County and the Arcadia area after radar alerted to a possible twister.
Manatee County advised people to be patient. “Residents and visitors need to understand this is going to be a long process,” said Manatee County Public Safety Director Jodie Fiske.
Coastal flooding due to onshore flow is anticipated over next 24 to 36 hours, the county noted. Coastal Level A evacuations and evacuations from low-lying areas are still encouraged in Manatee and shelters at Miller Elementary School (601 43rd St W, Bradenton) and Nolan Middle School (6615 Greenbrook Blvd, Bradenton) are open.
9:30 a.m.: Sarasota County urges people to stay off the roads in update
Sarasota County urged people to staff off the roads until Tropical Storm Debby passes, noted that expected rainfall totals have increased to 6 to 12 inches, with isolated higher amounts of up to 18 inches over the next five days, and a potential for up to 4 feet of storm surge in low-lying areas.
Coastal areas may experience flooding caused by excessive rainfall from now until Monday, Aug. 5. Excessive runoff could result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone areas. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks, and flood may occur in poor drainage and urban areas, the county noted.
The county noted that Public Works staff went to St. Armands Circle on Saturday morning to clean, check and make sure the stormwater system was functioning properly. They also lowered the water levels at the Celery Fields and Phillippi Creek Basin in preparation for rain.
The Knight Trail gun range will be closed Sunday, Aug. 4, for staff and visitor safety. Solid waste collection for Monday, Aug. 5 is expected to continue as scheduled.
The Department of Health Sarasota's Back-to-School Clinic scheduled at the North Port location on Aug. 4 has been canceled. To ensure all students receive their required vaccinations, DOH will extend the North Port Immunization Clinic hours from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. during the week of Aug. 5-9, with walk-in hours from 4-5:30 p.m.
8: 45 a.m. National Weather Service update for Sarasota, Manatee
A spokesperson for the National Weather Service in Ruskin said the latest forecast calls for six to eight inches of rain for the area Sunday and Monday. Winds of 20 to 25 mph are anticipated, with gusts as high as 50 mph accompanying heavy rain and thunderstorms.
Tornadoes are also possible. The weather service issued a warning that expired at 9:15 a.m. that included east central Manatee, as well as parts of DeSoto and Hardee counties.
Tropical Storm Debby's direction has shifted slightly west overall, but now remains headed north toward Florida's Panhandle-Big Bend area.
Along the Sarasota/Manatee coast, there could be a storm surge between three and four feet, according to the weather service. Forecasters recommend people stay indoors, monitor the storm forecast and listen to warnings from local authorities.
Power outages remain sparse as of Sunday morning, with FPL's outage map showing sporadic outage reports but nothing widespread. https://x.com/scgovEOC/status/1820063372735611283
8:30 a.m. Sarasota Memorial planning regular operations today; St. Armands Urgent Care closed
Sarasota Memorial is planning for normal services and operations today. However, the St. Armands Urgent Care Center will be closed today due to potential flooding risk from the tropical storm. At this time, all other SMH urgent care centers will be open normal hours, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Any additional updates, as needed, will be shared on SMH social media and on our webpage, https://www.smh.com/hurricane.
8 a.m. National Hurricane Center update as Tropical Storm Debby almost due west of Sarasota, Bradenton
Sarasota and Manatee counties remain under a Tropical Storm Warning and Storm Surge Watch as Tropical Storm Debby passes due west of the area.
The forecast for Sarasota and Manatee remains largely the same, with an expected 4-8 inches of rain, 2-4 feet of storm surge and the potential for tropical storm-force winds
Tropical Storm Debby is expected to strengthen throughout the day and be Hurricane Debby when it likely makes landfall in northern Florida on Monday.
"On the forecast track, the center will move across the eastern Gulf of Mexico through tonight and reach the Florida Big Bend coast Monday morning," according to the 8 a.m. National Hurricane Center update.
7:30 a.m.: Latest Sarasota, Bradenton Tropical Storm Debby National Weather Service forecast
According to the latest forecast from the National Weather Service Tampa office, Sarasota and Manatee counties can expect "conditions across west central and southwest Florida will continue to deteriorate through the day from south to north as bands of showers and isolated thunderstorms associated with Debby spread over the region."
4-8 inches of rain is expected in the area from Tropical Storm Debby, but even after the storm passes we can expect more rain and possible flooding.
"As Debby exits the area Monday night and Tuesday, broad southwest flow will persist off the Gulf of Mexico with feeder bands/convergent boundaries feeding into the storm to the north," reads the NWS forecast. "This will create a significant risk for bands of locally heavy rain to set up across portions of the forecast areas with potential for trailing convection creating locally excessive rainfall amounts."
