Flood Warning Issued for Manatee County as Heavy Rain Causes Localized Flooding
A flood warning was issued for Manatee County on Sunday afternoon after heavy rainfall prompted concerns about localized flooding across the area, according to the National Weather Service in Tampa Bay.
The warning was issued around 1:45 p.m. after between 1 and 3 inches of rain fell in and around the Bradenton area. Forecasters said the rainfall could produce minor flooding in low-lying locations and areas with poor drainage.
Communities expected to be impacted include Bradenton, Palmetto, West Samoset, South Bradenton, West Bradenton, Ellenton, Memphis, the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport area, Samoset, Oneco, Bayshore Gardens, Palma Sola and Cortez.
The Bradenton Police Department urged residents to use caution, warning motorists to watch for standing water, particularly in neighborhoods that are prone to flooding, and to avoid driving through flooded roadways if the depth of the water is unknown.
In addition to the flooding concerns, the National Weather Service warned of a high risk of rip currents along the Manatee County coastline through 8 p.m. Monday. Beachgoers are encouraged to stay out of the surf or swim only near lifeguards if beaches are open.
Rain chances are expected to remain elevated through the beginning of the week as a tropical depression over the Gulf continues moving northwest. Forecasters expect the system to strengthen into a tropical storm while tracking toward the central Gulf Coast, with Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana and Texas in its projected path. A tropical storm watch has been issued for portions of the Florida Panhandle.
For the Bradenton area, the National Weather Service forecasted a 60% chance of rain Sunday night and a 70% chance on Monday, with additional showers and thunderstorms possible throughout the week. Although the tropical system is not expected to directly impact Manatee County, its moisture is expected to contribute to continued wet weather across the region.