LARGO, Fla. – As Hurricane Helene impacts the area, Largo residents are strongly advised to remain sheltered indoors for their safety. The primary threat to Pinellas County is storm surge, along with flooding, debris, and downed power lines.
Even if the weather seems to improve temporarily, it’s crucial to stay inside until the storm has completely passed.
City of Largo Updates:
- Closures: All City facilities will be closed on Friday, September 27. Largo Police and Fire Rescue will remain operational and can be reached by phone or online.
- Solid Waste Changes: Thursday’s trash and recycling pickup will be moved to Friday, and Friday’s will be moved to Saturday. Sign up for alerts by texting LARGORECYCLES to (727)425-4004.
- Damage Assessment: Teams will begin assessing damage on Friday once it’s safe to do so.
- Downed Power Lines: Report these to Duke Energy at 800.POWERON (800-769-3766) or call 911. Do not approach or touch them.
- Manhole Coverings: Do not remove manhole coverings. This can cause sewer backups and won’t improve stormwater drainage.
Read: Hurricane Helene Update: A Major Threat To Florida’s Big Bend
Safety Reminders:
- Limit Travel: Stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.
- Avoid Flooded Roads: Do not drive through flooded areas.
- Floodwater Safety: Never wade through floodwater, as it can be deeper and faster-moving than it appears, and may contain hidden hazards.
- Downed Power Lines: Stay away from downed power lines and report them.
- Generator Safety: Use generators outdoors and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Check Road Closures: Before traveling, check for real-time road closures on waze.com.
Read: Storm Conditions Force Closure Of Courtney Campbell Causeway: Florida Highway Patrol
Resources:
- Emergency Alerts: pinellas.gov/alert-pinellas
- Find a Shelter: pinellas.gov/emergency-information/public-shelters
- Tips for During and After the Storm: pinellas.gov/after-the-storm
Read: Florida Highway Patrol: Howard Frankland Bridge Closed Due To Storm Conditions
Stay Informed:
- Weather Updates: Monitor updates from the National Weather Service and weather radios.
- Emergency Alerts: Sign up for Alert Pinellas at pinellascounty.org/alertpinellas.
- Ready Pinellas App: Download for emergency information.
- City Services Updates: Check Largo.com/Storm and social media.
- Phone Numbers: Pinellas County Citizen Information Center: (727) 464-4333, City of Largo: (727) 587-6700 (business hours).
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