PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – While Pinellas County was spared the worst of Hurricane Milton’s storm surge, the area experienced hurricane-force winds and record rainfall, causing widespread damage and flooding just two weeks after Hurricane Helene.
As of Thursday afternoon, recovery efforts are underway with search and rescue missions ongoing. County and utility crews are working to clear roads, repair infrastructure, and restore essential services.
READ: Pinellas County Lifts Evacuation Order, But Urges Residents To Stay Off The Roads
Power outages are affecting approximately 75% of the county, over 140 pump stations have been damaged, and only three of the county’s 14 hospitals are currently accepting new patients. Residents in St. Petersburg and Gulfport are under a boil water notice.
Key Impacts:
- Major Rescue Operation: Over 430 residents were rescued from severe flooding at The Standard Apartments in Clearwater.
- Widespread Flooding: Inland communities previously flooded during Tropical Storm Debby experienced flooding again.
- Shelter Usage: Over 11,000 residents sought refuge in public shelters.
- Tropicana Field Damage: The roof of Tropicana Field was torn off by high winds.
- Limited Hospital Capacity: Only Clearwater Morton Plant, Mease Dunedin, and Mease Countryside hospitals are accepting patients.
Important Information for Residents:
- Stay Safe: Avoid downed power lines and flooded areas. Do not wade through floodwater.
- Limit Travel: Limit unnecessary travel to allow crews to work safely.
- Conserve Water: Tampa Bay Water urges all customers to conserve water.
- Report Issues: Use SeeClickFix at pinellas.gov/SeeClickFix to report non-emergency issues.
- Generator Safety: Operate generators outdoors in well-ventilated areas.
- Document Damage: Photograph and document all damage for insurance claims.
- Hire Licensed Contractors: Ensure any contractors hired are licensed.
- County Information Center: Call (727) 464-4333 for assistance. Deaf or hard of hearing residents can access online chat at www.bit.ly/PinellasChat.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Android Users: Download our free app to stay up-to-date on the latest news.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.