500 People Rescued From Flooded Sarasota Homes, More Expected: Police

SARASOTA, FL — About 500 residents have been rescued from flooded houses in Sarasota, and the city's police department said it expects water rescues are expected to continue into Monday evening as officers search for people stranded in the floodwater.

The department shared photos on its Facebook page of residents plucked from floodwaters that were taken near the intersection of South Conrad Avenue and Bahia Vista Street, near Philippi Creek in Sarasota.

"We are not out of the woods yet. More rain is forecasted tonight and tomorrow," police said on Facebook. "If you or someone you know needs emergency help, please call 911 immediately."

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"To ensure our first responders are available for emergencies and water rescues, we urge everyone to stay off the roads and avoid preventable incidents," the department said. "Your cooperation is crucial in helping us focus our resources on those in need."

Police thanked other agencies for assistance, including the North Port Police and Fire Departments, Charlotte County Fire Department, Englewood Fire Department, and the Florida Urban and Search Task Force Six, as well as the ongoing support of the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office and Sarasota County Emergency Services.