PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – With Hurricane Milton bearing down on Florida’s west coast, Pinellas County has opened two additional emergency shelters to accommodate residents evacuating from vulnerable areas.
Lealman Innovation Academy in St. Petersburg and Clearwater Fundamental Middle School are now open to the general population. This brings the total number of open shelters in the county to eight, including options for those with pets and special needs.
READ: Hurricane Milton Threatens Florida: Hurricane And Storm Surge Warning Update
Mandatory evacuations are in effect for Zones A, B, and C, including all high-rise buildings, mobile home parks, and residents with special needs. Residents are urged to finalize their evacuation plans and be in a safe location outside of evacuation zones before tropical storm force winds arrive on Wednesday.
Available Shelters:
- General Population:
- Lealman Innovation Academy, St. Petersburg
- Clearwater Fundamental Middle School
- Largo High School (pet-friendly)
- Gibbs High School, St. Petersburg (pet-friendly)
- Palm Harbor University High School (pet-friendly)
- Special Needs:
- Palm Harbor University High School Bldg. 19
- Dunedin Middle School
- Oak Grove Middle School, Clearwater
Transportation:
- Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) will provide free rides to shelters on the Pinellas mainland until 7 p.m. today. Pets are welcome on buses.
- The State of Florida is also offering free shuttle service to shelters. No reservations are required.
Important Reminders:
- Know Your Zone: Check your evacuation zone at disaster.pinellas.gov, using the Ready Pinellas app, or by calling (727) 464-4333.
- Pack a “Go Bag”: Bring essential items like medications, clothes, and personal hygiene supplies, but pack light as shelter space is limited.
- Prepare Your Home: Fill gas tanks, secure valuables, refill medications, and secure your home before leaving.
For the latest updates and information, visit disaster.pinellas.gov or call the County Information Center at (727) 464-4333.
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