MANATEE COUNTY, FL (Aug. 4, 2021) – High volumes of rain over a short period led to the closure of Morgan Johnson Road (57 Ave E) between State Road 64 and 13 Avenue East this morning.
At around 8:45 a.m., Manatee County Public Works staff received reports of rising water along Morgan Johnson Road just south of S.R. 64. Shortly after, County highway staff arrived on the scene, observed hazardous roadway conditions in the area, and made arrangements to close the road temporarily.
“This morning, Manatee County stormwater and highway maintenance crews were called upon to assist with temporary actions to stabilize the area and close the roadway until the water subsides,” said Chad Butzow, Department Director for Manatee County’s Public Works Department. “We experienced an enormous amount of rainfall over the last 24 hours, with many areas seeing well over four inches in that period.”
The closure will remain in effect for several hours, and motorists should monitor the county’s website and social media pages for updates about when the road will reopen. Motorists should detour using 13 Avenue East and 65th Court East until that time and are reminded to never drive through flooded roadways.
There are no other closed roads in unincorporated areas of Manatee County. However, standing water and pooling can make some roads impassable during and after a strong rain. We advise that drivers use caution whenever roads are wet, and that they avoid driving through standing water. Manatee drivers can report local flooding by calling (941) 708-7497.
