MANATEE COUNTY, FL (August 2, 2024) – Manatee County is now under a Tropical Storm Watch. A Tropical Storm Watch means that tropical storm conditions are possible within the watch area within 48 hours.
A Tropical Storm Warning means that tropical storm conditions are expected somewhere within the warning area within 36 hours. It is projected that the county will come under the Tropical Storm Warning soon. Effects of the storm (which would be named Debby) will be felt beginning late Saturday and through the day on Sunday.
While there have been no evacuations ordered at this time, emergency management will be opening a shelter at Nolan Middle School (6615 Greenbrook Blvd, Bradenton, FL 34202) at noon Saturday allowing those in low lying areas shelter if they wish to evacuate. Residents and visitors should be rushing their pre-storm preparations to completion at this time as forecasters continue to monitor the progress of Invest 97L.
Manatee County pools will be closed Saturday, Aug. 3 through Monday, Aug. 5. The plan is to reopen with regular hours Tuesday, Aug. 6. There may be additional closings or postponements based on weather conditions. Go to mymanatee.org/storm for up-to-date information about evacuation levels, shelters and sandbag locations.