CLEARWATER, Fla. – The City of Clearwater is taking proactive steps to safeguard critical infrastructure and protect residents in advance of Hurricane Milton.
These measures include restricting potable water service, removing traffic signal boxes, and taking lift stations offline for Island Estates, Clearwater Beach, and Sand Key.
Water Service Restriction and Lift Station Shutdown
Potable water service will be restricted on the barrier islands beginning at 7:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 9th. Customers in these areas may experience very low water pressure after this time.
READ: Hurricane Milton Retains Strength After Eyewall Replacement, Florida Landfall Imminent
Additionally, lift stations, which are vital components of the wastewater system, will be taken offline starting at 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday to preserve them for post-storm use.
These restrictions follow the full closure of the barrier islands, scheduled for 7:00 p.m. tonight, October 8th. Pinellas County and the City of Clearwater are urging all remaining residents to evacuate immediately.
Protecting Critical Infrastructure
The restriction of potable water is intended to protect critical infrastructure and reduce strain on water and wastewater systems. The removal of traffic signal boxes will prevent damage to these essential traffic management devices. Motorists are reminded to treat intersections without working traffic signals as four-way stops.
READ: Florida Approves Shift Of 300,000+ Home Insurance Policies From Citizens To Private
Safety Considerations
The water service restriction will also affect fire lines, limiting the availability of water for firefighting efforts. Evacuees are advised to turn off the power to their homes before leaving to reduce the risk of electrical fires caused by potential flooding.
The City of Clearwater will continue to provide updates on potable water and sewer services before, during, and after the storm via email and updates to myclearwater.com.
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