Lifeguard competition returns to Siesta Key

Nearly 200 of Florida’s top lifeguards are competing this week for a chance to show off their skills on a national stage.

Sarasota doctor warns, 'the light at the end of the tunnel is becoming a very dim light'

There are many reasons why people may choose not to be vaccinated. But it's a choice that has consequences, according to doctors at Sarasota Memorial Hospital, which like other hospitals, is left to bear the brunt of that decision.

Rep. Vern Buchanan quarantining after COVID-19 diagnosis

Congressman Vern Buchanan is taking some time off after being diagnosed with COVID-19, a spokesperson said Monday.

Breakthrough discovery: Mote researchers may have found method to kill red tide with clay

For the past two years, researchers with Mote Marine, the FWC, and other organizations have been working to develop ways to fight red tide. On Friday, they may have witnessed the breakthrough they hoped for.

Distracted driver hit, killed 4 men changing tire on I-75 in Sarasota, troopers say

It was dark on Interstate 75 through Sarasota Thursday night, but a group of men driving a truck with a trailer had to pull over and change a flat tire. But Florida Highway Patrol troopers said when another driver took their eyes off the road, a tragedy unfolded.

Family warns beachgoers one year after son was struck by lightning

When thunder roars, go indoors. One mom is reminding beachgoers of lightning dangers one year after her son was struck by a bolt on Siesta Key Beach and miraculously survived.

Florida overdose deaths spike 37% during pandemic, CDC data shows

In Florida, preliminary data from the CDC shows the death toll was up about 37% from 2019. The alarming trend is being driven by an increase of the synthetic opioid fentanyl on the streets, and the coronavirus pandemic's impact on substance abuse and addiction. Not everyone received the support they needed.

Fatal crash blocks southbound I-75 in Sarasota

A crash involving “multiple” deaths closed the southbound lanes of Interstate 75 in Sarasota County Thursday night. according to the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office.

North Port to keep shelter open 1 more night as floodwaters slowly recede

Officials with the city of North Port say despite rain Saturday night, floodwater levels are lower Sunday morning than they were before the evening storm.

Sarasota standoff ends after barricaded man found dead

Officers with the Sarasota Police Department say a standoff with an armed man has ended after the suspect was found dead.

Floodwaters may not recede until Sunday in some North Port neighborhoods

Floodwaters along parts of Sumter Boulevard in North Port have increased with some areas seeing an extra inch of water per hour, which has people living nearby hoping to make it through the weekend without getting water inside.

Venice is 'Shark Tooth Capital of the World'

Every year hundreds of thousands of treasure hunters flock to the beaches around the city of Venice in Sarasota County. But it’s not gold they seek; it’s fossilized sharks’ teeth.

Flooding expected to continue in parts of North Port

The city of North Port in Sarasota County is still feeling the effects of Hurricane Elsa. Hundreds of homes are flooded, and water levels are expected to continue rising.

Hurricane Elsa soaks portions of Manatee, Sarasota counties

Hurricane Elsa brought a lot of rain to Myakka City late Tuesday. In some cases, residents logged 9 to 10 inches. That rain, combined with land already saturated, brought flooding.

Thousands without power as Elsa brings gusting winds, heavy rain overnight

Elsa brought some of its heaviest rain and wind during the early morning hours Wednesday, knocking out power for thousands of customers across the Bay Area. 

Despite rain, Trump supporters turn out for Sarasota rally

Despite heavy downpours earlier in the day, thousands of supporters of former president Donald Trump packed the Sarasota fairgrounds for what he dubbed the "Save America" rally.