PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – Pinellas County officials are urging residents in Evacuation Zone A and mobile homes to evacuate immediately. The deadline for safe evacuation is noon today, after which rising floodwaters will make roads impassable, trapping people in areas predicted to be inundated by this afternoon.
The National Weather Service forecasts a storm surge of 5 to 8 feet, which could easily flood the first floor of homes or sweep away vehicles. Street flooding is already causing hazardous travel conditions in coastal and low-lying areas, and the situation is expected to worsen significantly throughout the day and overnight.
Read: Urgent Evacuation Notice For Pinellas County Barrier Island Residents
High-Rise Buildings Not Safe
Even high-rise buildings in Zone A are not safe options, as critical utility systems located on the ground floor could be flooded, leading to potential fires.
First responders will be unable to reach people during the peak of the storm surge. Therefore, residents are strongly encouraged to evacuate before noon to ensure their safety.
Transportation Options and Shelter Information
- PSTA will provide a final bus service along route 555 at 10 a.m. for those on barrier islands needing transportation.
- Uber is offering a $40 voucher for up to two trips using the code HELENERELIEF.
- Evacuees can seek shelter with family or friends, in hotels, or at one of the six public shelters opened by Pinellas County, including pet-friendly and special needs shelters.
Hurricane Helene has intensified to a Category 2 hurricane and is expected to strengthen further before making landfall in the Big Bend area of Florida. Pinellas County is under various weather warnings and watches, including a Storm Surge Warning and a Tropical Storm Warning. Dangerous storm surge of 5 to 8 feet is expected to persist even after the storm passes.
Stay Informed and Take Action
- Evacuate immediately if you are in Zone A or a mobile home.
- Seek safe shelter outside evacuation zones if possible.
- Move electric vehicles to higher ground to prevent fire hazards.
- Stay updated through local news, the National Weather Service, and official Pinellas County channels.
- Register for emergency alerts and download the Ready Pinellas app.
Remember: Time is of the essence. Evacuate now to ensure your safety.
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