PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – Tropical Storm Helene is expected to strengthen to a major hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico by Thursday. It is anticipated to bring tropical storm force winds and life-threatening storm surge flooding of 5-8 feet and flash flooding to the Pinellas County area.
Pinellas County has issued a mandatory evacuation order for residents in Zone A and all mobile homes countywide. The order takes effect at 9 a.m. today, Wednesday, Sept. 25, and includes high-rise buildings in Evacuation Zone A.
Read: Tropical Storm Helene Strengthens, Eyes Florida Gulf Coast; New Atlantic Systems Monitored
Six shelters are open for residents who need to evacuate and do not have a safe place to stay with family or friends. Special needs resident transportation began this morning at 9 a.m.
Residents can check their evacuation zone by visiting disaster.pinellas.gov, registering for emergency alerts through Alert Pinellas, downloading the Ready Pinellas app, or calling the County Information Center (727) 463-4333.
The following shelters will open at 9 a.m.:
- Dunedin Highland Middle: 70 Patricia Ave, Dunedin (special needs)
- Gibbs High: 850 34th St S, St. Petersburg (pet friendly)
- John Hopkins Middle: 701 16th St S, St. Petersburg (special needs)
- Largo High: 410 Missouri Ave, Largo (pet friendly)
- Lealman Innovation Academy: 4900 28th St N, Lealman
- Palm Harbor University High – Building 19: 1900 Omaha St, Palm Harbor (special needs, pet friendly and general population)
- Palm Harbor University High – Main Building: 1900 Omaha St, Palm Harbor (pet friendly)
Read: Tropical Storm Helene Nears Hurricane Strength, Threatens Florida And Gulf Coast
Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) will offer free rides to the shelters starting today at 9 a.m. Pets are allowed on the bus: cats and small dogs in a crate; large dogs on a muzzle leash.
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