Punta Gorda took a pretty good hit from offshoots of Tropical Storm Debby on Monday morning, dumping several inches of rain on an already saturated city, causing flooding and snarling traffic. As of noon, the following streets had been closed: All side streets between U.S. 41 and Cooper Street, and between Marion and Olympia avenues. All side streets between West Retta Esplanade and Marion Avenue. Retta Esplanade and Taylor Street.

According to a release from the Punta Gorda Police Department, as bands of showers move through the area from Tropical Storm Debby, the streets may continue to flood throughout the evening. An above-normal high tide is expected between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. due to the amount of rainfall over the last 48 hours. Residents are advised to secure or bring inside any lawn furniture or other moveable items. If your dock is accessible, please secure any vessels and items as well. The Punta Gorda area remains under a flood watch through tonight. The National Weather Service indicates that minor to moderate river flooding may occur within the next 48 hours. Punta Gorda also remains under a tornado watch until 2 p.m. today. Charlotte County is under a coastal flood advisory and a high surf advisory through 8 a.m. Tuesday. Residents are encouraged to monitor local television and radio stations, as well as their weather radios while Tropical Storm Debby continues to move through the Gulf of Mexico.