Tornado reported in Myakka

A tornado in the Myakka City area has caused minor property damage and several downed power lines.
A Manatee County Sheriff's Office report states deputies were dispatched to the area around 3 a.m. today, June 6, to an area in the 36000 block of State Road 70 E., regarding a highway obstruction.

The National Weather Service had issued a tornado alert shortly before the alarm sounded.

Upon deputies' arrival, several hazards were identified, including a shed and debris field covering about 150 feet of State Road 70 both east and westbound, several downed power lines and a fire.

Coordinated efforts between the sheriff's office, Peace River Electric Co., the Florida Department of Highway Transportation and local fire stations helped to render the area safe.

The extent of damages is not known at this time.

The National Weather Service is forecasting heavy rain all today. For information, visit weather.gov.

Contact Pam Eubanks at [email protected].