With a tropical cyclone forming in the Virgin Islands, Manatee County officials are urging residents to make plans today by having supplies on hand or an evacuation plan if they're in low-lying coastal areas.

"We are entering the peak of Hurricane Season, so now is the time when you must have a plan and be ready," said Public Safety Director Jacob Saur. "We're continuing to remind Manatee County residents that a public shelter should be your absolute last resort if severe weather approaches. Contact friends or family who live inland or outside of evacuation areas and try to stay with them if you need to evacuate."

The National Hurricane Center has placed Manatee County in the five-day cone of uncertainty for the approach of Tropical Cyclone #9. Regardless of the storm’s eventual track, high winds, rain, and flooding or storm surge may affect the area as early as this weekend.

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