Below-freezing weather expected in inland Manatee, Sarasota

 Portions of Manatee and Sarasota counties generally east of Interstate 75 are under a freeze warning tonight, with the rest of the region under a cold-weather advisory.

Overnight temperatures are expected to fall below 32 degrees for inland sections of both counties, the National Weather Service in Ruskin said this afternoon. Myakka City is estimated to have a 48% chance of freezing temperatures while a wider area including Lakewood Ranch and the University Town Square area could experience 8-12 hours of temperatures in the 30s.

Wind chills also are expected to be in the 20s and 30s for hours across a broader region.

Cold-weather shelters are opening across Manatee and Sarasota counties tonight in several locationsn including

• Salvation Army, 1400 10th St. in Sarasota
• Remnant Church, 2895 Ashton Road, Sarasota
• Salvation Army, 1204 14th St. W., Bradenton
• Under One Roof, 407 57th Ave E., Bradenton, will open early to provide shelter for women in need during the cold weather.  

Emergency Management officials remind residents that pets should not be left outside during the cold weather. Those who need to be outside overnight or during the early morning are encouraged to dress in several warm layers and limit skin exposure to the wind. Sarasota County Fire Department officials advise using extreme caution when heating your home, as the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning increases during cold weather due to the improper use of heating devices.