Sarasota County removes storm debris

As Tropical Storm Andrea continued to track northeast this morning, the storm left some downed branches in Sarasota County.

“We are getting reports of downed branches, and are responding as we get those reports,” said Curt Preisser, Public Information Officer for Sarasota County.

Residents called in about a dozen reports of downed branches or power lines as of 1 p.m. No injuries had been reported at that time, Preisser said.

Earlier Thursday morning, an oak branch hanging in the roadway on Beneva Road had motorists slowing to drive around the branch.

A tornado watch remained in effect for northern Sarasota County and Manatee County until 1:30 p.m.