Sarasota, Florida experienced a significant impact from Tropical Storm Debby, as St. Armands Circle turned into a ghost town on a day that is typically bustling with people. The heavy rain brought by the storm caused flooding in many areas, including the roads surrounding the popular shopping and dining destination.
Local resident Henry Griffiths expressed his surprise at the rising water levels, noting that he had been fishing earlier and had a successful outing due to the storm. However, he also voiced his concern about the extent of the flooding and the uncertainty of how high the water levels might rise overnight.
Despite the adverse weather conditions, some residents like Devlin Loyne and his friends from Bradenton refused to let the storm dampen their spirits. They took advantage of the empty streets to ride bikes around the circle and even planned to visit the beach to witness the rough waters firsthand. Loyne described the experience as challenging but fun, highlighting the impact of the storm on the coastal areas.
Sandra Tapfumaneyi, the chief of emergency management for Sarasota County, emphasized the importance of staying safe during such weather events. She warned residents about the dangers of flooded roads, citing the potential for road washouts and the risk of vehicles being swept away by as little as six inches of water. Tapfumaneyi urged people to avoid unnecessary risks and to prioritize their safety during the storm.
For those seeking assistance or information, Tapfumaneyi recommended contacting 3-1-1 for support from the county. Additionally, she directed residents to the county’s website for updates on the storm and resources for hurricane preparedness. Despite the challenges posed by the storm, Tapfumaneyi assured the community that county operations would resume as normal the following day, ensuring that essential services would be available to residents.
As Sarasota navigates the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby, it serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and caution during severe weather events. By heeding the advice of emergency management officials and staying informed, residents can stay safe and weather the storm effectively.
