PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – The Sunshine Skyway Bridge has reopened after being closed due to the hazardous conditions caused by high winds and inclement weather.
Travelers were advised to find alternative north/south routes until the bridge reopens.
Meanwhile, the Howard Frankland Bridge, another critical link between Tampa and St. Petersburg, was also closed to northbound traffic due to severe damage caused by wave action and erosion. Two lanes have been reopened.
Flooding has inundated numerous roadways throughout the county, making travel treacherous and prompting warnings for residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. Emergency responders are working tirelessly to address the flooding and assist those affected.
Read: Alafia River Swells In Wake of Hurricane Debby, Drivers Urged To Use Caution
Power outages are widespread, with thousands of homes and businesses still without electricity. Utility crews are actively working to restore power, but the ongoing flooding and debris are hindering their efforts.
Residents are urged to remain vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities. The Pinellas County Emergency Operations Center is coordinating response and recovery efforts, and residents can find updates and resources on the county’s website and social media channels.
Read: Hurricane Debby Slams Florida’s Big Bend, Threatens Catastrophic Flooding
As the storm continues to move across the region, the threat of additional flooding and power outages remains. Pinellas County is bracing for a long and challenging recovery process in the wake of Hurricane Debby’s devastating impact.
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