As the 2025 hurricane season looms just 100 days away, Manatee County finds itself grappling with the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby, which left many residents, particularly in Lakewood Ranch, facing extensive flooding. An independent study commissioned by the county revealed that outdated stormwater infrastructure and flood maps are critical issues that require immediate attention. Patrick Tara, a principal engineer with INTERA, highlighted that rainfall was the primary contributor to the flooding rather than water released from Lake Manatee. This finding raises concerns among residents who fear that inadequate preparations could lead to more devastation in future storms. Local families, like that of Jill Sauchinitz, who experienced significant water damage, are anxious about the lack of improvements to stormwater management systems.

County officials are aware of the growing population and the increasing need for effective stormwater infrastructure maintenance. They are advocating for both immediate debris removal and long-term projects to enhance drainage capacity. With time running out, the community is urging swift action to better protect against the impending hurricane season.