Here's How to Find Help After Hurricane Debby
Image: Dan Starostecki
Historic amounts of rain—from 16 to 19 inches in some areas—have fallen in Sarasota and Manatee counties as a result of Hurricane Debby, leading to major flooding throughout both counties and disruptions to everything from cleanup operations to daily commutes.
Sarasota County reported that emergency services personnel made more than 500 water rescues yesterday, mostly in the Pinecraft neighborhood, where water from bloated Phillippi Creek flooded streets and cars and damaged homes. In Manatee County, officials said more than 200 water rescues took place near Center Lake and the Braden River.
Manatee County government offices are open today, but Sarasota County offices remain closed as officials deal with the aftermath of the storm and begin to assess its damage. Sarasota County plans to resume regular operations on Wednesday, Aug. 7.
As you begin to clean up and assess damage, here are resources for help if you need them. We'll keep this list updated as we learn more.
Post-Storm Resources
Sarasota County
Find the county's most recent updates here.
City of Sarasota
Find the city's most recent updates here.
Manatee County
Find the county's most recent updates here.
Florida 211
Call 211 for information about local resources and services.
State Assistance Information Line (SAIL)
Floridians can access information from SAIL hotline operators on how to prepare before, during and after a hurricane, as well as find updates about road closures and alternate routes, shelters, hotels and motels that accept pets, and more. Call (800) 342-3557.
United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR)
UMCOR responds to natural or civil disasters when they overwhelm a community’s ability to recover on its own. Survivors can call (855) 228-3862 to register for disaster assistance such as debris removal, tarping, muck and gut.
Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
Report unlicensed contractors via a hotline at (866) 532-1440.
Crisis Clean-Up
Crisis Clean-Up, which connects local relief organizations, has been activated in Debby's wake and survivors can call (844) 965-1386 to register for assistance with debris. Click here for more information.
Legal Aid of Manasota
This nonprofit provides civil legal services for free to impoverished residents in Sarasota and Manatee counties. Visit legalaidofmanasota.org for more information.
Voluntary Damage Assessment Survey
Sarasota County residents who experienced damage as a result of Debby are encouraged to complete a voluntary survey: https://loom.ly/MpVOZsc. If you need assistance filling out the form, call 311.
Heat Safety
The heat index is forecast to reach 104 degrees Fahrenheit today, so exercise caution when working outside. Stay hydrated, take breaks often, wear sunscreen and loose-fitting clothing, and work in the cooler evening or early-morning hours if possible. For more information on avoiding heat-related injury, click here.
Mosquito Safety
To prevent mosquito-born illnesses, make sure to drain standing water, keep doors closed, repair holes in screen doors and windows, cover your skin, and use insect repellant with DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535, making sure to follow application instructions carefully. Never use repellant on a baby who is less than 2 months old.
