County officials are releasing water from Lake Manatee after Hurricane Debby. Here’s why

Manatee County Government officials announced a plan to release water from Lake Manatee after Hurricane Debby dumped record-breaking rainfall in the area.

County officials said in a news release the “strategic release” was made in cooperation with supporting agencies and is aimed at managing water levels and ensuring public safety.

“The strategic release of water from Lake Manatee is a precautionary measure to mitigate the impact of the recent heavy rainfall and to ensure the Manatee Dam remains in good structural condition,” Manatee County Public Safety Director Jodie Fiske said. “Our priority is the safety and well-being of our residents. We urge everyone to follow these alerts to stay safe.”

Debby broke a daily rainfall record by delivering over 11 inches of rain, according to the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport weather station.

That rainfall has Lake Manatee’s water level higher than usual. To ensure the lake does not overflow and prevent that water from damaging the dam’s structural integrity, county officials say they are releasing water downstream.

The amount of water released was not specified. Additional “strategic releases” could happen to maintain safe water levels in Lake Manatee.

The county put high water vehicles and transport units “at key locations downstream of the Manatee Dam,” the release said.

Road closures remain in effect until safe travel conditions are met.

For more information, visit MyManatee.org/storm .

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