Manatee County closely monitors Tropical Depression Fred as it approaches Florida this weekend
MANATEE COUNTY, FLA. (Aug. 12, 2021) -- Emergency Management and Public Safety officials are urging Manatee County residents to monitor Tropical Depression Fred closely heading into the weekend as the storm moves slowly toward Florida.
Manatee County’s Emergency Operations Center has not activated at this time but is continuing to monitor the storm. Manatee County’s Emergency Management Division is on several calls a day with the state and the National Weather Service. Officials say many low lying and coastal areas of Manatee County are already saturated from heavy August rains and could experience temporary flooding if the storm brings heavy rain on Saturday and Sunday.
“I encourage anyone who’s concerned about flooding or lives in flood prone areas to start making plans to stay with family or friends outside of that area,” said Public Safety Director Jacob Saur. “It’s possible for Manatee County to also see tropical storm force winds, so continue to monitor Tropical Depression Fred throughout the weekend.”
Manatee County Public Works Department has made sandbags available at Manatee Beach parking lot, 4000 Gulf Drive, Holmes Beach and at some flood-prone communities. Self-serve sandbag locations are also available on a first come, first served basis at two locations:
- Rubonia Community Center, 1309 72nd St. E., Palmetto
- Myakka Community Center, 10060 Wauchula Road, Myakka City
County residents should monitor the news and the County's social media pages for updates. Residents can text ManateeReady to 888-777 for the latest messages from Manatee County regarding any storm.