Manatee officials: Stay inside until the storm passes

Manatee County officials are encouraging residents to avoid driving and walking through standing water as Tropical Storm Hermine continues to bring heavy winds and rains to the area today.

Emergency Management Chief Don Hermey said another 10 inches of rain is expected through Friday with wind gusts up to 25 mph from feeder bands.

Public Works crews continue to distribute sandbags through 7 p.m. tonight at Lakewood Ranch Park, 5350 Lakewood Ranch Blvd., Bradenton. Other distribution sites are Buffalo Creek Park, G.T. Bray Park, Stomwater Operations and the Rubonia Community Center.

“If you don't have to be out, please don’t be,” Hermey said in a statement. “We don’t want to see people stranded anywhere. Make your runs this weekend, after the storm passes.”  

Manatee residents with questions about the storm or about local conditions should call Manatee Citizens Information Center at 748-4501.  

Manatee County Government offices are closed today, as are Manatee County Public Schools and Lakewood Ranch Town Hall.