Longboat gears up for Tropical Storm Emily

Longboat Key emergency services are on stand-by, closely monitoring the progress of Tropical Storm Emily, according to Police Chief Pete Cumming.

As of 11 a.m. on Monday, Cumming said the Longbeach Village is experiencing “minor flooding,” with water also beginning to pool in other areas of the Key.

Cumming expects the storm will make landfall at 1 p.m.  near Anna Maria Island. Weather forecasters say heavy rain is the biggest threat from Emily, though a tree was reported down in the 1000 block of Gulf of Mexico Drive. Maximum sustained winds are at 40 mph, with gusts to 50 mph. No serious damage has been reported. 

Extra public works employees are on hand to provide assistance if needed, the chief said. 

Cumming urges residents to “take the normal precautions,” such as removing potential projectiles from their yards and avoiding driving through standing water.

“Stay at home,” Cumming warned. “Don’t drive if you don’t have to.”