Tropical Storm Debby strengthens into Category 1 hurricane as it approaches Florida

Tropical Storm Debby brought heavy rain and winds as it lashed through Manatee County, Florida.Footage shows the downpour battering a neighbourhood on August 4 as it heads to Big Bend region for a landfall.Bradenton also experienced bad weather as the storm moved north. As of 8 pm on Sunday, Debby was 100 miles west of Tampa with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph.While Manatee County remains outside Debby's predicted direct path, officials urge residents to stay alert as the storm's bands move across the region.Manatee County Public Safety Director Jodie Fiske said: 'Residents and visitors need to understand this is going to be a long process.'National Weather Service (NWS) said tropical storm conditions are expected to persist overnight and possibly into Monday In Manatee County.Resident Darrly Writes said: 'Moments ago on Bradenton Beach. Video shows heavy rains and winds.'