Manatee County Implements Innovative Data System for Hurricane Response

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Manatee County is implementing a new technological system to streamline data management during hurricanes, consolidating all critical information into one accessible platform.

Before this integration, Manatee County often had to navigate multiple programs to get essential data on:

• Rain totals
• Wind speed
• Forecasts
• Lift station metrics
• Shelter occupancy
• Power outages
• Road closures
• Evacuation routes
• Damage totals

Now, through a platform developed by Peregrine, Manatee County can easily view all this information from one central location.

“We base our decisions on the most current information available,” remarked Jodie Fiske, Manatee County’s Director of Public Safety. “At no time do we make decisions regarding evacuations or shelter openings without consulting the latest data.”

Fiske emphasized that obtaining real-time damage estimates, which highlight the most affected areas in Manatee County, will be immensely beneficial. Such details will enable the county to present precise damage assessments when seeking state or federal assistance.

The county has established what they refer to as the “GIS Room,” featuring six monitors to display all real-time data.

Additionally, the Peregrine system archives historical data, granting emergency management leaders the ability to compare ongoing storms with past ones.

“Manatee County’s deployment of Peregrine last year showcased the significance of real-time data integration and historical analysis in navigating complex storm response operations,” stated Peregrine CEO Nick Noone. “This collaboration ensures Manatee County is equipped with the necessary tools to protect lives and safeguard critical infrastructure at crucial moments.”