Flood advisory issued for Manatee and Sarasota counties

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) - Urban and small stream flooding is expected Monday morning across Manatee and Sarasota counties as thunderstorms produce heavy rain throughout west central Florida.The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Advisory through 11:15 a.m. EST for eastern Manatee and Sarasota counties, where between 2 and 4 inches of rain have already fallen. An additional 1 to 2 inches of rain is expected over the area through mid-morning, which will result in minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas.Life-threatening flash flooding is occurring in nearby DeSoto and Hardee counties to the south, where water is already entering homes. Conditions in Manatee and Sarasota counties are less severe. Residents should still take precautions and avoid unnecessary travel.Rain chances stay high, but lovely weather is days awayThe primary focus areas are eastern Manatee County, including areas around Lakeland and Plant City, and Sarasota County, throughout the county.Surrounding