Sarasota and Manatee counties are in for a wet stretch. Afternoon and evening storms are forecast every day through Sunday, bringing heavy downpours and dangerous lightning. Inland communities will see the most rain, though a few storms will push toward the coast. One area already recorded three inches in a short period, and with the ground saturated, flood warnings are active for the Manatee River at Mayaka Head and Horse Creek west of Arcadia through Friday at 11 a.m.
If you live in flood-prone areas like Hardy, DeSoto, or East Manatee, keep an eye on local alerts and never drive through flooded roads. Boaters should note the Gulf is warm with light winds, but lightning remains the biggest threat on the water. Plan your commutes and outdoor activities around the afternoon storm window.
There’s a silver lining. After a dry summer, Sarasota-Bradenton is now 1.89 inches above average rainfall for the year, the first time since June 1. Drier air is expected Tuesday and Wednesday, bringing some relief. How are you planning around this rainy stretch? Let us know in the comments.
