MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Authorities in Manatee County are urging residents to stay off the roads as emergency crews work to assess damage and clear debris left by Hurricane Milton. The Manatee County Sheriff’s Office reported that the storm has created hazardous conditions across the area, with downed trees and power lines making many roads impassable.
“It’s a mess, and will be for a while,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement on Thursday morning, as crews began damage assessments and cleanup efforts.
Officials emphasized that minimizing travel is crucial to allow rescue and restoration teams to reach affected areas more efficiently. Residents who evacuated have been asked to hold off on returning to their neighborhoods until authorities determine it is safe to do so.
Work is underway to evaluate the storm’s impact, with deputies and First-In teams assessing damage and coordinating recovery efforts. The county has advised residents to stay informed by visiting mymanatee.org/storm for the latest updates.
Authorities acknowledged the desire of many residents to check on loved ones and properties but stressed that road conditions remain dangerous in the aftermath of the storm.