Sarasota faces rising storm surge as Hurricane Helene approaches

SARASOTA, Fla. (WFLA) — Coastal areas of Sarasota are already experiencing significant storm surge as Hurricane Helene approaches, with surges expected to reach between four and seven feet overnight into Friday morning.

As waves from Sarasota Bay crash against the coastline, the Tony Saprito Fishing Pier and parts of Hart’s Landing, which sits beneath the John Ringling Causeway, have already sustained damage. This area has faced storm-related damage in the past, and residents are concerned about the impending surge.

“We’re already seeing parts of the dock wash away,” one local business owner said. “It’s happening sooner than expected, and we’re hoping people on the barrier islands are prepared.”

Residents have begun evacuating from areas expected to be most affected. Longboat Key resident Gary Vinson decided to stay behind to assist with post-storm efforts, although his family has evacuated to safety in New Port Richey.

“I don’t think people understand the seriousness of the situation when they say evacuate,” Vinson said. “Just evacuate.”

Sarasota is bracing for the worst of the storm surge later Thursday evening, and areas like Bayfront Park and Marina Jack are already underwater. Locals are expressing unease at the rising waters, with new residents like Erik Lemberg noting how unsettling it is to watch the ocean flood into the streets.

“This is kind of scary seeing the water rising so fast, especially with more expected overnight,” Lemberg said.

Road closures on bridges to the barrier islands are already in effect, and authorities are urging residents to stay off the roads as the situation worsens.

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As storm surge levels continue to climb, the next high tide is expected around midnight, which is likely to bring even more flooding.

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