Manatee County Completes Comprehensive Flood Vulnerability Assessment with State Grant

Manatee County has completed a countywide Flood Vulnerability Assessment aimed at strengthening local infrastructure and community preparedness against future flooding events. The project was funded through the state’s Resilient Florida Grant Program, which awarded more than $1.7 million to support the county’s flood resilience efforts.

The assessment analyzed public infrastructure across multiple sectors, including transportation and evacuation routes, wastewater treatment facilities, drinking water systems, electrical utilities, parks, preserves, hospitals, fire stations, and law enforcement buildings. The evaluation also considered impacts on natural and cultural resources that play a key role in community resilience.

Flood scenarios studied as part of the assessment included sea level rise, sunny-day flooding, extreme rainfall, storm surge, and compound flooding — where multiple flood drivers coincide. Using NOAA’s intermediate low and intermediate projections, the county assessed potential sea level rise through 2050 and 2080, as well as 100- and 500-year rainfall events and varying storm surge levels.

By mapping where these risks overlap, the assessment provides critical insight into flood-prone areas and vulnerable infrastructure. County officials say the findings will help guide future adaptation projects and position Manatee County to pursue additional state and federal funding for resilience improvements.

Residents can view the findings and maps from the Flood Vulnerability Assessment on the county’s official website.