Although Tropical Storm Debby's path has moved west, according to the National Hurricane Center (NHC)—taking Sarasota and Manatee counties out of the "cone of uncertainty," the storm's projected path—our area will still see heavy rain, wind and possible flooding because of the storm.

Per the NHC's 8 p.m. update, Debby was moving northwest at 22 miles per hour with winds near 40 miles per hour. The storm is expected to strengthen as it moves through the Gulf of Mexico and forecasters predict it will make landfall as a Category 1 hurricane in the Big Bend area of the state.

Sarasota County Warns of 'Excessive Rainfall'

In a 5:49 p.m. update, Sarasota County Government officials wrote on Facebook that while it has not issued evacuation orders and will not be opening shelters or conducting sandbag operations, "coastal areas of Sarasota County could see flooding caused by excessive rainfall between 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3, and Monday evening, Aug. 5. Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Rainfall totals of 5 to 10 inches with isolated higher amounts up to 15 inches are expected over the next 5 days."

Manatee County 'Encourages' Evacuation for Flood Zone A

In Manatee County, due to predicted storm surge of 2-4 feet, Manatee County Government director of public safety Jodie Fisk is encouraging Manatee County residents in coastal flooding Zone A, low-lying areas and flood-prone areas to evacuate. 

Sandbag Operations

Manatee County has also opened self-serve sandbag operations in Bradenton at the following locations:

66th Street West Fleet Building

4700 66th St. W., Bradenton, 34210

North Coquina Boat Ramp

1507 Gulf Drive S., Bradenton, 34217

South Branch Library

6081 28th St. W., Bradenton, 34207

Lincoln Park

501 17th St. E., Palmetto, 34221

Palmetto Youth Center

501 17th St. W., Palmetto, 34221 

Rubonia Community Center

1309 72nd St. E., Palmetto, 34221

Myakka Community Center

10060 Wauchula Road, Myakka City, 34251

Shelter Openings

In Manatee County, shelters are open at the following locations:

Miller Elementary School

601 43rd St. W., Bradenton, 34209

Nolan Middle School

6615 Greenbrook Blvd., Bradenton, 34202