Downtown Gulfport Remains Flooded

Update 12 p.m.: Gulfport Beach, Beach Boulevard and parts of Shore Boulevard are back open, however, low lying areas are still under water. Flood waters are draining, leaving behind trash, debri and mud in the streets of Gulfport.

CERT members Bob and Lou Worthington said at least three sailboats washed ashore Sunday night. Two, including a 40-foot sailboat, were removed near Veteran's Park, but one was anchored near the Gulfport Recreation Center this morning.

Earlier 10:30 a.m.:

The locals are tourists in downtown Gulfport this morning, as residents take photos of what is sure to be a historic storm.

Tropical Storm Debby walloped southwest Florida Sunday, with coastal communities such as Gulfport and Pass-A-Grille taking the brunt of the storm.

Beach Boulevard remains flooded, with water levels knee-high when folks venture out for a walk. Many, if not most, downtown businesses are closed. Stella's Restaurant is dark today, as is the Neptune and the Village Pub.

One holdout is O'Maddy's, with its spectacular views of the beach. The water is not up to the bar stools, but Shore Boulevard also remains flooded and Gulfport Beach is officially closed.

There have been no reported injuries, and most folks seem to have power.

Mayor Mike Yakes was out early Monday morning, driving through town in his pickup truck, to survey damage. Yakes' main concern is toppled trees and downed power lines. Coastal areas are most impacted. One sailboat washed ashore.

The Gulfport Community Emergency Response Team, a volunteer team was activated Sunday night, is at the Boca Ciega Yacht Club, where damage will be surveyed.

Check back with Patch for updates.