ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – St. Petersburg is in full response mode as Hurricane Helene approaches, now a Category 2 storm. The city has activated its Emergency Operations, and officials are closely monitoring the storm and addressing residents’ needs.
The situation is evolving rapidly, with winds picking up and flooding already affecting low-lying areas. The storm surge, predicted to reach an unprecedented 5-8 feet, is expected to last for 12-36 hours. As a precaution, Shore Acres and Snell Isle are closed to non-residents.
Read: Hurricane Helene Rapidly Intensifies To Category 2, Major Hurricane Landfall In Florida Imminent
The city has announced closures and service changes: City facilities, including Sunken Gardens, will close on Friday. The St. Pete Pier will stay open, but individual businesses may adjust hours. Trash and recycling pickup scheduled for Thursday will be delayed until Saturday. Brush sites may open Friday, depending on damage assessments. Pinellas County Schools are closed on Friday.
Residents are urged to take precautions: Those in Zone A who haven’t evacuated must shelter in place. Driving through flooded streets should be avoided. Water usage should be limited on Thursday and Friday. Electric vehicles exposed to water should not be driven or charged due to the risk of battery fire. Residents are also asked not to remove manhole covers, as this does not help with flooding.
Read: Pinellas County Issues Urgent Evacuation Order: Zone A And Mobile Homes Must Leave By 12PM
Latest Developments:
- Winds are picking up and flooding has begun in low-lying areas.
- The storm surge is expected to be a prolonged event, lasting 12-36 hours.
- Shore Acres and Snell Isle are closed to non-residents.
Closures and Service Changes:
- City facilities, including Sunken Gardens, will be closed on Friday, Sept. 27.
- The St. Pete Pier will remain open, but individual businesses may have altered hours.
- Thursday’s trash and recycling pickup will be delayed until Saturday, Sept. 28.
- Brush sites may open on Friday, pending damage assessments.
- Pinellas County Schools are closed on Friday, Sept. 27.
Important Guidance for Residents:
- Shelter in Place: Zone A residents who haven’t evacuated must shelter in place as conditions worsen.
- Stay Off the Roads: Avoid driving through flooded streets.
- Limit Water Usage: Conserve water on Thursday and Friday.
- Electric Vehicle Safety: Do not drive or charge EVs exposed to water due to the risk of battery fire.
- Do Not Remove Manhole Covers: This action does not help mitigate flooding.
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