Sarasota Offering Resources for Storm Damage Victims

SARASOTA, FL — Sarasota County has announced the opening of a one-stop, multi-agency resource center for storm damage victims.

The center will open at 11 a.m. at Edson Keith Mansion at Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 S. Tamiami Trail, in Sarasota. Residents who were impacted by the damage doled out during Sunday, Jan. 17’s storms can meet with county building officials, utility staff, the sheriff’s office, American Red Cross and Salvation Army all at one location.

Home and business owners who experienced storm damage are also reminded to reach out to their insurance companies to file claims. Residents who visit the center will need to bring proof of residency in the affected area to Edson Keith Mansion. The center is expected to remain open until 2 p.m.

Sarasota County damage assessment teams visited more than 350 properties following Sunday’s storms, county officials reported. Damage estimates exceed $3 million.

Tornadoes ripped through both Sarasota and Manatee counties early Sunday morning. An estimated EF2 tornado that touched down in Duette is being blamed for two deaths and five injuries.

Photo from the Sarasota County Facebook page