Sumter sheriff’s office reports minimal impact by Tropical Storm Debby, continues to patrol without hindrance

Sumter County Sheriff’s Office released an update on road conditions as Tropical Storm Debby makes its way up the East Coast.

Mark Bordeaux, public information officer for the sheriff’s office, said “Thankfully, the impact of Debby on our area appears to have been minimal.” As of noon Thursday, the sheriff's office was not aware of any flooded roadways or obstacles hindering the flow of traffic.

The sheriff’s office continues to monitor Debby and driving conditions for the county. Deputies will continue to patrol and respond to calls without hindrance.

Sheriff Anthony Dennis encouraged residents to use caution and drive with care while being alert to areas where standing water may cause a vehicle to hydroplane.

“Even small areas of water could cause a car to hydroplane. So please be aware of road conditions and drive carefully. Just because a road is not flooded, does not mean that it is safe to drive the speed limit,” Dennis said. “It is always important to maintain a safe distance from the drivers in front of you, but especially on wet roads.”

Elsewhere around the county, Sumter County Government’s Emergency Operations Center was deactivated about 9:45 a.m. on Thursday, Aug. 8.

A flood watch remains in effect until 8 a.m. on Friday.

There are reports of a few trees coming down, and there were minimal power outages, but Sumter County did not feel the brunt of Tropical Storm Debby, said Joe Perry, communications coordinator for the county.

County government offices will be open for normal business at 8:30 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 9.