11:30 Update 8/26/24
**Tropical Storm Warning Issued as Hurricane Helene Approaches**
The National Weather Service has officially issued a tropical storm warning for the region as of 11 a.m. today. Residents from Babcock Ranch and northward should prepare for tropical storm-force winds expected Thursday morning and afternoon.
**Manasota Key Impacted**
At 10:43 a.m., Charlotte County officials announced the closure of a key roadway. “Beach Road in Englewood is closed from State Road 776 to the Charlotte-Sarasota county line due to flooding from Hurricane Helene,” stated county officials. Residents and motorists are urged to avoid driving on North Beach Road and Gulf Boulevard on Manasota Key.
**Flooding in Venice**
Parts of Venice are already experiencing flooding, particularly along The Esplanade and Tarpon Center Drive, where storm surge and tidal shifts have caused water to overflow onto the streets. Higel Marine Park is also seeing flooding as city officials brace for a storm surge expected to reach up to 8 feet.
**Transit Services Suspended**
Due to the impending threat from Hurricane Helene, Charlotte County Transit Service has suspended operations for Thursday and Friday. “Customers with current reservations will be notified of cancellations by phone,” according to officials. The transit reservation phone line will also be unavailable on Thursday. In Sarasota County, all Breeze transit services and ticket outlets are also closed Thursday, with Friday’s operations still uncertain. “Adjustments to service will be evaluated once the storm has passed,” said Sarasota County in a statement. Charlotte County echoed that its transit services will resume once the storm threat has cleared.
**Flooding Precautions and Safety Alerts**
Localized street flooding is already underway in several areas as Hurricane Helene is forecast to bring life-threatening storm surge and heavy rainfall. Some areas could experience storm surges of 4 to 7 feet. Charlotte County officials warn that the combination of storm surge and excessive rain could lead to severe flooding, particularly in tidal and low-lying areas.
Officials are advising the public to take the following precautions:
– Seek higher ground immediately.
– Avoid contact with floodwaters, especially if you have an open wound.
– Do not drive on flooded roads. Vehicles can stall and become stranded, and driving through floodwaters can worsen conditions for nearby homes.
– If your vehicle stalls, abandon it and seek higher ground.
– Avoid wading through water higher than knee-deep, especially if it is moving.
After flooding subsides, additional precautions include:
– Discard any food that has come into contact with floodwaters.
– Drink only bottled water until water safety is confirmed.
– Avoid disaster areas to prevent interference with rescue efforts.
– Do not handle live electrical equipment and report any downed power lines to the authorities.
– For those using private well water, follow CDC guidelines for safety.
For more information on private well water safety, visit [CDC’s water safety page](https://www.cdc.gov/environmental-health-services/php/water/private-water-public-health.html).