Manatee County Reminds Residents Permanent Sandbag Sites Remain Open
With the busiest stretch of hurricane season underway, Manatee County is reminding residents that self-service sandbag locations remain available at several sites throughout the county.
County officials are encouraging residents to prepare sandbags before a storm threatens the area, allowing families to focus on other preparations, including securing their homes, gathering emergency supplies and reviewing evacuation plans.
Permanent self-service sandbag locations are available at:
Palma Sola Park
Blackstone Park
Parrish Park
Rye Preserve
Myakka Community Center
Rubonia Community Center
Residents using the self-service sites should bring their own shovels, as shovels are not provided. Officials are also encouraging residents to assist elderly, disabled or otherwise vulnerable neighbors who may need help filling or transporting sandbags.
The reminder comes as local governments continue efforts to help residents prepare during the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season. Hundreds of residents attended the City of Bradenton’s Hurricane Preparedness Event Saturday morning, where sandbags, bottled water and tarps were distributed while supplies lasted.
Residents can visit Manatee County’s storm preparedness website at mymanatee.org/storm to locate permanent sandbag sites, determine their evacuation level and find information about preparing homes and families before severe weather approaches.
County officials also encourage residents to follow Manatee County’s social media channels throughout hurricane season for preparedness information, storm-related announcements and emergency updates.
Preparing early can help residents avoid the long lines and last-minute rush that often occur when a tropical storm or hurricane threatens Southwest Florida.
