Hurricane Milton Information Page

The City is in full recovery mode following the aftermath of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. This page will continued to be updated with important information for residents.

Questions? Please post any questions at the bottom of the page under the "Questions" Tab. If you have immediate questions, please contact the citizen information center at 727-464-4333.

RECOVERY ASSISTANCE	DEBRIS PICKUP	SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE INSPECTIONS	PERMITTING

NOVEMBER 26, 2024 - FEMA DEADLINE EXTENDED

The deadline to apply for FEMA assistance for hurricanes Milton and Helene has been extended to Jan. 7, 2025. Please visit the Recovery Assistance page for more information on how to apply for FEMA assistance.

NOVEMBER 18, 2024 - Notice of Voluntary Interest Form

We know that many of our residents were affected by the past several storms. At this time, we are currently waiting for funding to become available, which could take quite some time, possible 1.5 - 2 years. Although we do not have those dates, we continue attending meetings with the Florida Department of Emergency Management (FDEM) and FEMA to learn more about funding opportunities. In the interim, we will keep your name as an interested party.

Please complete the Notice of Voluntary Interest Form and email it back to either pharbert@ctsfl.us or maraya@tsfr.us. We will notify you once funding becomes available.

NOVEMBER 15, 2024 11:30 A.M. - Ready-to-Occupy Properties Wanted

FEMA is seeking property owners and managers of residential housing to participate in a program offering temporary housing to eligible residents displaced by the hurricanes. FEMA will be hosting a Zoom Webinar on Thursday, November 21, 2024 from 1:00 P.M. - 2:30 P.M. Click here to register.

More Information for property management companies and multifamily properties is available in the flyers below:

• FEMA Seeks Property Management Companies for Direct Lease Flyer
• FEMA Seeking Multi-family Rental Properties to Support Disaster Survivors Flyer

NOVEMBER 8, 2024 2:30 P.M. - Substantial Damage Inspections

As part of our ongoing hurricane recovery efforts, the City has begun the process of assessing damaged structures as part of FEMA requirements. Over the coming days and weeks, you will see contractor teams from Tetra Tech in your neighborhoods. This is the firm we are working with in completing the assessment process with FEMA's required timelines. We anticipate they will start on Tuesday, November 12th. Here's what you can expect as these teams begin their work:

• Teams will begin to assess structures from the curbside in vehicles and will frequently take photos from the vehicle. They do not require access inside the structure.
• In some cases, teams will be on foot and need to take multiply photos and record basic information like your address.
• Each of these team members will wear yellow reflective vests and will have a credential indicating they are a Tetra Tech contractor that they can display via QR code on their devices.
• Each of these teams will be using handheld electronic devices (tablets and smartphones) to record the necessary information.

We know recovering from two hurricanes is overwhelming, and we thank you for working with us through this required FEMA process. If you have any questions as you see Tetra Tech staff in your area, please contact Tarpon Springs Emergency Management at 727-938-3737.

NOVEMBER 7, 2024 12:30 P.M. - IMPORTANT Storm Debris Update

The final day for debris and yard waste pickup is FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2024. If you still have debris and yard waste for pickup, please have it at the curb before the 15th. Also, drop-off for yard waste and storm debris at the yard waste facility is available until Wednesday, November 20th. After the 20th, the Yard Waste Facility will resume normal operations.

For information on the Yard Waste Facility, go to https://www.ctsfl.us/sanitation-recycling-yardwaste/

For questions, contact Solid Waste Division at 727-943-4837 or email sanitation@ctsfl.us.

NOVEMBER 5, 2024 4:00 P.M. - Fall Cleanup

The Fall Cleanup has been rescheduled for Sunday, January 12, 2025. Items must be at the curb by 7:00 A.M.

Click on the flyer for more information!

OCTOBER 30, 2024 3:00 P.M. - Sunset Beach Reopening

Thanks to the heavy lifting and hard work by City crews, contractors and Duke Energy, Sunset Beach will reopen Friday, November 1st. Please remain cautious as some areas remain off limits, and restroom facilities are limited.

OCTOBER 30, 2024 2:30 P.M. - Business Assistance

Business Assistance is available for our businesses. Visit the Pinellas County Economic Development website at PCED.ORG/Hurricane for details on tools and resources to help businesses recover.

You can also contact them at 727-464-7332 or at businesshelp@pinellas.gov for personalized consultation.

OCTOBER 29, 2024 9:30 A.M. - Cycadia Cemetery Reopening

The City's Parks and Public Works crews have been hard at work to restore Cycadia Cemetery and make it safe for everyone. The cemetery will reopen on Wednesday, October 30th. Staff is onsite and will assist families, as there may be sections still closed due to standing water and debris.

OCTOBER 28, 2024 1:30 P.M. - Debris Update

The City's debris management contractor will be finishing the first sweep of the City on Thursday, October 31st, with the exception of Riverside Drive, which will be completed on Saturday due to traffic concerns.

The second sweep of the City will begin on Friday, November 1st. We urge all residents to get any storm-related debris that they need collected into sorted piles on the right-of-way now, or as quickly as possible, for the contractor to collect.

Debris collection will be halted early Thursday, October 31st for the safety of trick-of-treaters.

OCTOBER 25, 2024 9:00 A.M. - Last Day for FEMA Representatives at Recreation Center

Today is the last day that FEMA representatives will be at the Tarpon Springs Recreation Center (400 S. Walton Avenue) to help residents with applications. They will be onsite until 7:00 P.M. today. After today, residents can continue to apply or get help online, or call FEMA for information and assistance.

OCTOBER 24, 2024 1:00 P.M. - Recycling Pickup Resumes

Waste Management has started collecting recycling today! Due to the volume, it will take a few cycles to fully catch up. We appreciate the continued patience as they work to complete this process.

OCTOBER 21, 2024 7:15 P.M. - Storm Debris Update

Effective immediately, the City’s Yard Waste Facility at 101 Meres Blvd. will close daily at 7 p.m. In addition, those taking storm debris will be required to show two forms of matching ID identifying themselves as residents of Tarpon Springs. The unincorporated residential debris site at East Lake and Keystone Rds. closed on 10/20. Residents of the unincorporated areas can take debris to the County facility at 13600 Icot Blvd., Clearwater from 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

OCTOBER 21, 2024 2:30 P.M. - Yard Waste Pickup

Waste Management is resuming regular yard waste pickup this week, beginning Thursday, Oct. 24th east of Alt. 19 and Monday, west of Alt. 19. Yard waste that is in paper bags, cans or bundled and tied will be collected. All loose yard waste will be picked up over the next several weeks by the large debris trucks.

OCTOBER 19, 2024 7:30 A.M. - Yard Waste Pickup

Yard waste pickup for residents east of Alt. 19 will resume Thursday, Oct. 24. To get a jumpstart, Waste Management will be in the neighborhoods east of Alt. 19 today, Saturday, Oct. 19, to begin picking up yard waste.

OCTOBER18, 2024 9:30 A.M. - Storm Debris, Yard Waste, Trash Pickup

The City has incurred an unprecedented amount of storm debris and trash in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. We are collecting and processing the excess waste as quickly as possible.

• LARGE DEBRIS TRUCKS - The black trucks are continuing daily, picking up storm debris from the affected neighborhoods.
• STORM DEBRIS - Residents can also take storm debris to the Yard Waste Facility, 101 E. Meres Blvd. 24/7 at no cost.
• YARD WASTE - Residents can take yard waste to 898 S. Levis Avenue 24/7 until further notice at no cost.
• RECYCLABLES - Residents can take recyclables to the Dog/Splash Park, behind Fire Station 70 on Gulf Road, and to Anderson Park near the boat launch at no cost.
• HOUSEHOLD TRASH - Waste Management is currently collecting regular solid waste (household trash). Other collections (yard waste and recycling) are suspended temporarily until further notice.
• PRIVATE GATED COMMUNITIES - The large debris trucks are not allowed to enter private gated communities per the contract. The City has put in a request to FEMA for a waiver to allow the trucks to enter these communities and the City is waiting on a response.
• ANNUAL FALL CLEANUP - The annual clean-up scheduled for October 27th is canceled and will be rescheduled for a later date.

Please continue to monitor this site for updates on the rescheduled Fall Cleanup, when recycling and yard waste pickup will resume, and debris removal guidelines.

Thank you for your patience and cooperation!

OCTOBER 17, 2024 8:00 P.M. - FDOR Tax Relief / Splash Park Reopening

Florida Department of Revenue Tax Relief
The Florida Department of Revenue is is offering tax relief in the wake of Hurricane Helene. More information can be found by clicking here to download the document.

Splash Park
The Tarpon Springs Splash Park will re-open today, Friday, October 18th! The park is open Monday through Sunday from 10 A.M. to 6 P.M. Thank you for your patience as we repaired storm damage and balanced the water.

OCTOBER 17, 2024 2:00 P.M. - Heritage Preservation Board Meeting Tomorrow

The City is conducting an emergency meeting of the Heritage Preservation Board tomorrow, Friday, October 18th at 2:00 P.M. The meeting will be located in the City Hall Auditorium (324 E. Pine Street). The purpose of the meeting is to discuss temporary actions to expedite recovery from Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton in the local historic district.

View the Agenda

The meeting can also be watched live on the City's Youtube Channel.

OCTOBER 17, 2024 9:30 A.M. - Storm Debris, Yard Waste, Trash Pickup

The City has incurred an unprecedented amount of storm debris and trash in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. We are collecting and processing the excess waste as quickly as possible.

• LARGE DEBRIS TRUCKS - The black trucks are continuing daily, picking up storm debris from the affected neighborhoods.
• STORM DEBRIS - Residents can also take storm debris to the Yard Waste Facility, 101 E. Meres Blvd. 24/7 at no cost.
• YARD WASTE - Residents can take yard waste to 898 S. Levis Avenue 24/7 until further notice at no cost.
• RECYCLABLES - Residents can take recyclables to the Dog/Splash Park, behind Fire Station 70 on Gulf Road, and to Anderson Park near the boat launch at no cost.
• HOUSEHOLD TRASH - Waste Management is currently collecting regular solid waste (household trash). Other collections (yard waste and recycling) are suspended temporarily until further notice.
• ANNUAL FALL CLEANUP - The annual clean-up scheduled for October 27th is canceled and will be rescheduled for a later date.

Please continue to monitor this site for updates on the rescheduled Fall Cleanup, when recycling and yard waste pickup will resume, and debris removal guidelines.

Thank you for your patience and cooperation!

OCTOBER 16, 2024 5:00 P.M. - Sunset Beach Update

Sunset Beach was devastated by Hurricane Milton. Trees were down, structures damaged, and storm surge and strong winds swept away a pad mounted transformer and broke two 40-ft. pools, resulting in no power including the pavilion and bathrooms. Duke Energy crews and contractors, who have been restoring power throughout the City, also are working alongside Public Works staff to get Sunset Beach reopened. There is more work to be done before the beach can reopen, but they are making great progress.

Thank you Public Works, and the Resilience Venture crews who come from Alaska, Georgia, and California to help our City recover.

OCTOBER 16, 2024 2:30 P.M. - Recycling Drop Off Locations Update

Residents looking to drop off recyclables can do so at these three locations:

• Splash/Dog Park
• Behind Fire Station 70 on Gulf Road
• Anderson Park (near the Boat Ramp)

The 898 S. Levis Avenue location is no longer available for recyclable drop off due to the amount of debris/yard waste that is also being collected at that location.

OCTOBER 15, 2024 9:00 A.M. - Mobile Permitting Center

The City's Mobile Permitting Unit is back out today with extended hours to provide expedited permitting for emergency repairs necessitated by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Building Department staff will also be available to offer assistance for building permits. Additionally, there is no cost for storm-related permits.

• WHEN: Wednesday, October 16th
• TIME: 11:00 A.M. - 7:00 P.M.
• WHERE: 116 S. Pinellas Avenue (Located in the parking lot behind the building within the Police Mobile Command Center)

Residents and business owners can still apply for permits at City Hall (324 E. Pine Street).

OCTOBER 15, 2024 3:30 P.M. - Storm Debris, Yard Waste, Trash Pickup Update

The City incurred an unprecedented amount of storm debris and trash in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton. We are collecting and processing the excess waste as quickly as possible. This is an effort that involves many entities and the City needs your help:

• Please place yard waste debris in front of your property - away from construction debris and regular trash.
• Separating different types of debris will expedite pickup.

Please note:

• The Yard Waste Facility, located at 101 E. Meres Blvd., is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for storm debris disposal. Across the street at 898 S. Levis Ave., residents can take yard waste 24/7 until further notice. There are NO FEES.
• Waste Management is currently collecting regular solid waste only. Other collections (yard waste and recycling) are suspended temporarily until further notice. Recyclables can be taken to 898 S. Levis Ave., the Splash/Dog Park and behind the Fire Station 70 on Gulf Rd.
• A third-party contractor is picking up all remaining waste, including bulk and hazardous waste, such as white goods.
• The Annual Fall Cleanup is canceled due to this cleanup.

The City remains steadfast in its efforts to remove all excess waste and keep you informed. Thank you for you continued patience and kind cooperation!

OCTOBER 15, 2024 2:00 P.M. - Operation Blue Roof

The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) announced that the US Army Corps of Engineers, Jacksonville District has opened Operation Blue Roof through Tuesday, November 5th.

This program is a free service for homeowners and permanently occupied rental properties, providing fiber-enriched, industrial-strength sheeting to protect storm-damaged roofs until homeowners can make permanent repairs.

Impacted residents can sign up for this no-cost service by:

• Visiting blueroof.gov, or
• Calling 888-ROOF-BLU (888-766-3258)

OCTOBER 15, 2024 1:30 P.M. - FEMA Assistance

If you need help with your FEMA application, have questions, or need assistance, representatives from FEMA will be at the Community Center (400 S. Walton Ave.) beginning tomorrow, Wednesday, October 16th from 9:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M. daily.

OCTOBER 15, 2024 12:30 P.M. - Insurance Village Open

The state is hosting an “Insurance Village” to give residents an opportunity to get help with filing claims relating to Hurricane Helene and Milton. Policyholders will be able to meet with their insurance carriers in person and work together to file claims.

The village will launch on opening day and operate seven days a week there after as long as there is a demand.

• WHEN: Opening Tuesday, October 15th
• TIME: 9:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. (Opening Day) 9:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. (Regular Hours)
• LOCATION: Long Center, 1501 N. Belcher Rd., Clearwater

Residents should bring with them:

• A driver’s license or other form of identification, such as a passport or state-issued ID
• Insurance cards and insurance policy information/documentation
• Pictures or documentation of the property being claimed as a loss resulting from Helene
• Repair estimates
• Any additional insurance-related information that is accessible to residents

OCTOBER 15, 2024 10:00 A.M. - Mobile Permitting Center

Starting today, the City will be operating a mobile permitting office to provide expedited permitting for emergency repairs necessitated by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Building Department staff will also be available to offer assistance for building permits. Additionally, there is no cost for storm-related permits.

• WHEN: Tuesday, October 15th & Wednesday, October 16th
• TIME: 11:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.
• WHERE: 116 S. Pinellas Avenue (Located in the parking lot behind the building within the Police Mobile Command Center)

Residents and business owners can still apply for permits at City Hall (324 E. Pine Street).

OCTOBER 14, 2024 2:00 P.M. - Meeting Cancelations / Fuel Distribution

Meeting Cancelations:
Due to ongoing hurricane recovery, the following public meetings are canceled for this week:

• Library Board (October 17th)
• Budget Advisory Committee (October 17th)
• Sustainability Committee (October 17th)

State Fuel Distribution Site:
The fuel distribution site at St. Pete College Tarpon Springs (600 E. Klosterman Rd.) is open again today (Monday, October 14th) until 7:00 P.M. This site offers 10 gallons of fuel to residents at no charge. Wait times and lines are reported to be much shorter today.

OCTOBER 14, 2024 9:00 A.M. - Beware of Fraud

FEMA crews, housing inspectors & other officials will be working in areas impacted by Hurricane Milton. They carry official photo identification badges.

Follow these tips below from the Florida Department of Emergency Management on how to protect yourself against FEMA fraud. If you are unsure of the legitimacy of someone who contacts or approaches you, you can contact the Tarpon Springs Police Department at 727-937-6151.

Visit FloridaDisaster.org/Updates for more recovery info.

OCTOBER 13, 2024 7:30 P.M. - FEMA Assistance

Get help with your FEMA application, registration, and any questions related to Helene or Milton assistance Thursday, Oct. 17, 10 a.m. at the Tarpon Springs Recreation Center.

Special thank you to Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna for bringing the mobile assistance center to our city.

OCTOBER 13, 2024 2:00 P.M. - City Facilities Update

Cleanup and recovery continues today. Need a break? The Tarpon Springs Recreation Center is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. with cold water, phone charging, hot showers, laundry and restroom facilities. Free gas (max 10 gallons) is being distributed at St. Pete College 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Watch for the debris trucks and volunteer crews coming through neighborhoods.

Disaster Recovery:
FEMA and local assistance is available for homeowners and renters affected by Hurricane Helene and Milton.

Click Here for More Information

OCTOBER 12, 2024 6:30 P.M. - Free Fuel

Opening tomorrow, 10:00 A.M. - 7 P.M. at St. Pete College, a free fuel distribution center will be available. There is a limit of 10 gallons per car.

More Information: FloridaDisaster.org/Updates

OCTOBER 12, 2024 1:30 P.M. - Wastewater Update

City crews have completed temporary repairs to restore wastewater service to all areas of the city. Residents are again STRONGLY URGED to continue to keep water use to essential uses only while permanent repairs are ongoing.

OCTOBER 12, 2024 12:00 P.M. - Hope Florida Resource

The Tarpon Springs Recreation Division at 400 S. Walton Ave. is a Cooling and Comfort Station operating from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. today through Sunday, 10/13. Beginning Monday 10/14, hours are Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Services include a place to rest and cool off, water, phone charging (bring your own charger) washers/dryers and bathroom facilities. The eight washers and dryers accept only liquid soap and softeners.

OCTOBER 11, 2024 - 11:00 A.M. - Yard Waste, Debris, & Recyclables

TRASH-RECYCLABLES-YARD WASTE:

Waste Management will be concentrating on trash pickup only for the next week or so. Residents can take yard waste to the 898 Levis St. site at no cost.

Recyclables can be taken to three locations:

• 898 Levis St.
• Tarpon Springs Dog Park/Splash Park
• Behind Fire Station 70 on Gulf Rd.

These drop-off locations will remain open as long as necessary.

OCTOBER 11, 2024 - 8:00 A.M. - Reminders

𝗧𝗶𝗽𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗚𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝗹𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀

Safe Generator Use:

🔙 20 feet from your house
⌚️ 20 minutes cooling before refueling
🚨 $20 carbon monoxide protector

Licensed Contractors: A reminder to residents to be aware of unlicensed contractors who often target homeowners following a storm. Ensure any contractor you hire for repairs are properly licensed.

Residents can check licenses here: https://www.myfloridalicense.com/wl11.asp

OCTOBER 10, 2024 - 2:00 P.M. - City Yard Waste Facility Opens 10/11 / Cooling Center

OCTOBER 10, 2024 - 12:00 P.M. - Limit Water Usage

The City's water system is operating as normal and is SAFE TO DRINK. The wastewater system is operating at minimum capacity due to flash flooding and power outages, so we strongly encourage residents to limit water usage to essential uses only. Thank you for your cooperation so we can keep the system operational.

OCTOBER 10, 2024 - 11:30 A.M. - Post Storm Response

Cleanup:
City Public Works, Sanitation and Utilities crews have been out since early this morning clearing roadways and repairing other damages to help get our City back to normal as quickly and efficiently as possible.

OCTOBER 10, 2024 8:45 A.M. - Pinellas County Open

Pinellas County has reopened as of 8:45 a.m.

OCTOBER 10, 2024 8:00 A.M. - Roadway Hazards

The City has documented nearly 150 hazardous conditions in and around the roadways as of 8:00 a.m., and is continuing to assess damages. The conditions include downed power lines, low hanging power lines, downed trees, inoperable traffic signals, downed stop signs and street signs, and other roadway obstructions. For your safety, PLEASE do not venture out. Also, multiple lift stations are out of service and your water pressure may be low. PLEASE restrict water usage to essential use only to help protect the infrastructure.

OCTOBER 10, 2024 6:00 A.M. - Important Post Storm Update

Limit Water Usage
The City urges residents to please limit water use to essential uses only. Water supplies are limited in the City and throughout Pinellas County.

County Closure
Access to Pinellas County has been shut down due to hazardous conditions.

OCTOBER 10, 2024 5:00 A.M. - Post Storm Update

Hurricane Milton produced over 18” of rainfall and several gusts over 100 MPH in Pinellas County as is moved through the area. The Storm Surge Warning and Hurricane Warning have been discontinued. A Flood Warning remains in effect for Pinellas County. Dry and moderate seasonable temperatures in the low 80s are forecast for today (10/10).

Residents and non-essential personnel are advised to remain sheltered in place until emergency and safety personnel can assess damages and clear life-safety hazards.

Tarpon Springs Updates:

1. Tarpon Springs Police and our Public Works crews have already been out assessing the city for downed power lines, trees, and flooded areas.
2. When daylight breaks, push crews will be out to check for debris and clear the roads for the Fire Department to go out and begin window assessments.
3. The Fire Department will complete rapid window damage assessments for damage by grid and report any findings to Pinellas County.
4. The damage assessment team, comprised of the Building Department and Project Administration, will complete initial structural damage assessments for residential and commercial properties.

OCTOBER 9, 2024 11:00 P.M. - Reduce Water Usage

With the heavy rains and loss of power, the City is asking residents to reduce water usage to help protect the utility infrastructure. Also, if you notice leaks or water flows from areas where water should not be flowing, please notify the City at 727-938-3737.

OCTOBER 9, 2024 4:00 P.M. - Shelter in Place

𝗪𝗵𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗺 𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀, 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘁𝗲𝗰𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆. Our officers are seeing some flooding and wind damage throughout the city.

𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘆 𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿𝘀 - high winds can cause significant damage, severing power lines, breaking tree branches, and throwing unsecured items. Being outside during this time puts you at risk of injury.

𝗔𝘃𝗼𝗶𝗱 𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗼𝘄𝘀 - high winds can cause debris and other items to go airborne, crashing into your home and windows. Even if your windows are boarded the impact may cause your windows to break..

𝗗𝗼𝗻’𝘁 𝗱𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗮𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 - please do not drive around. If you drive through floodwaters and your vehicle stalls out - leaving you stranded - emergency services may not be able to get to you due to the severity of the storm.

𝗠𝗼𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿 the City of Tarpon Springs, Florida - City Hall Facebook page - important messages will also continue to be shared on this page.

𝗙𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆 - if the power goes out, make sure you know food safety protocols. 𝗣𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲𝘀 should be reported to Duke Energy: https://outagereport.duke-energy.com/...

OCTOBER 9, 2024 1:45 P.M. - Power Outage Information

Power outages can be expected during #Milton. Take action now to prepare for anticipated outages:

• Turn off & unplug all unnecessary electrical equipment
• Have ways to receive emergency alerts
• Consolidate your supplies & use the info below to plan ahead

Power Outages should be reported to Duke Energy https://outagereport.duke-energy.com/...

OCTOBER 9, 2024 9:00 A.M. - Update

Evacuate by Noon today; Palm Harbor Middle School has now opened as a shelter.

REMINDER: The City's Yard Waste Facility will remain open until noon today (October 9th).

Traffic signals may not be operational. Here's what to do when you find signals not working correctly.

OCTOBER 8, 2024 4:30 P.M. - City Closings Update

Due to Hurricane Milton arriving late Wednesday and into Thursday, all City offices, facilities and parks will remain closed through Friday. The Tarpon Arts show scheduled for Saturday also is canceled.

OCTOBER 8, 2024 3:00 P.M. - Yard Waste Facility / Duke Energy Information

Yard Waste Facility:
The yard waste facility will remain open until noon tomorrow (Wednesday, Oct. 9) unless storm conditions change. If so, we will notify you of an earlier closure. The City is placing light towers to illuminate the facility overnight.

Duke Energy Information:

Customers across the state should prepare for extended power outages.

Hurricane Milton is expected to make landfall as a major hurricane, bringing dangerously high winds, downed power lines and the high risk of flooding from the storm surge. With major hurricanes, road inaccessibility and excessive tree debris often slow the pace of power restoration and areas that experience comprehensive damage may take much longer to assess before high-level estimates on timing of restoration are available for everyone.

Additionally, as the second consecutive hurricane in the state in the same number of weeks, Milton is expected to deliver significant storm surge and flooding, which may lead to more complex repairs for already-compromised equipment. It is also important to note the potential for dangerous projectiles from remnant debris remaining in the streets in the aftermath of Helene, so please be alert and careful.

Remember these Important Electrical Safety Reminders.

• Electric current passes easily through water. Stay away from power lines that have fallen or are sagging. Consider all lines energized as well as trees or limbs in contact with lines. Report all power line hazards to 800.228.8485 or contact your local emergency services department or agency.
• If a power line falls across a car that you’re in, stay in the vehicle. If you must exit the car due to a fire or other immediate life-threatening situation, do your best to jump clear of the car and land on both feet. Be sure that no part of your body is touching the car when your feet touch the ground.
• If you are operating a gas-powered generator, always read the owner’s manual. Set it outside, well away from doors and windows to eliminate exposure to carbon monoxide fumes.
• Should rising water threaten your home or business – or if you evacuate due to flooding – consider turning off your power at the circuit breaker panel or fuse box.

Continue to visit dukeenergyupdates.com to get more safety information, receive the latest storm updates and sign up for proactive outage alerts. If you do lose power, simply text OUT to 57801, report the outage online or through the mobile app, or call 800.228.8485.

We will keep providing periodic updates in advance, during and after the storm. Stay safe.

OCTOBER 8, 2024 1:00 P.M. - Bridge Closures

The Beckett Bridge is among three bridges that will close today. If you have not moved your boat, time is running out. Please note the traffic lanes will be open, but the bridge will be locked for boat traffic.

OCTOBER 8, 2024 8:00 A.M. - Storm Surge Viewer

To find the storm surge risk at your house and in your neighborhood, click here to see the County's storm surge risk viewer. If you have not already evacuated, it is time to leave.

OCTOBER 7, 8:30 P.M. - Yard Waste Facility Open at 7:00 A.M. / Free Shuttle Service to Shelters

Yard Waste Facility:
Per the Governor’s directive, the City Yard Waste facility at 101 Meres Blvd. will open at 7 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 8 for residents to drop off storm debris. The facility will remain open until further notice.

Free Shuttle Service to Shelters:
Need a ride to a shelter? Take the free shuttle from the Winn-Dixie plaza at 1171 S. Pinellas. Hours are 7-9:30 a.m. and no reservations required.

OCTOBER 7, 2024 5:00 P.M. - Traffic Conditions / Building Department Update

Traffic Conditions
To find more information on current traffic conditions please visit https://fl511.com/.

Building Department Closure Notice
Please note in response to Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, the Building Department is currently closed. The notice with additional information can be downloaded here.

OCTOBER 7, 2024 - Mandatory Evacuation Zones A, B, C, and all Mobile Homes

Pinellas County has issued mandatory evacuation orders for all residents in evacuation zones A, B and C and ALL mobile homes, effective immediately, today, Monday, Oct. 7. You may find your Evacuation Zone atpinellas.gov/evacuation-zone/

Below are some great EV preparation tips from St. Petersburg.

OCTOBER 7, 2024 12:00 P.M. - Shelters Open

Shelters have opened as of 12:00 P.M. today (10/7).

OCTOBER 7, 2024 10:30 A.M. - Yard Waste Facility

The yard waste facility at 898 S. Levis will close at 4:30 p.m. today and remain closed until further notice.

OCTOBER 7, 2024 8:30 A.M. - Water Valve Testing

The City’s Water Division is exercising the 20” valves to ensure they open and close properly. This will cause temporary water discoloration. The water is safe; please let the faucet run clear before use.

There is still time to do some basic preps on your home before evacuating or hunkering down for Hurricane Milton. Here are some tips on how to secure your home. More info on what you and your family need to do to prepare: https://disaster.pinellas.gov

OCTOBER 6, 2024 8:00 P.M. - Pet Friendly Shelter Information

Pinellas County has not yet activated shelters, but if you want to plan ahead and need a pet-friendly site, Palm Harbor University High School is pet-friendly. We will post shelter information as soon as it’s available. For hotel information contact the County Information Center, 727-464-4333.

OCTOBER 6, 2024 5:30 P.M. - Water and Sewer Shut Off Clarification

There is no plan to shut off water/sewer services at this time. Only in the event of an extremely high storm surge would this be considered, and it would be an emergency, last minute decision. We apologize for any confusion and want residents to stay safe.

OCTOBER 6, 2024 4:00 P.M. - Update

All City offices will be closed Monday through Wednesday (10/7-10/9). This includes the golf course, cemetery, library, Heritage Museum, and Splash Park/Dog Park. Sunset Beach remains closed.

Storm debris crews will work through Monday.

Mandatory evacuations are expected to be announced Monday. Residents need to heed the evacuation notices. Please note if the track of Milton continues the city plans to shut down the water and sewer services west of Alternate 19. The current track forecasts storm surges higher than Helene.

Sandbag Locations:
Please begin preparations for the next storm. As a reminder, sandbags are now available for City residents at the City’s three sandbag locations. The sites will be continually stocked. Maximum 10 per household. Locations (See map below):

• Splash/Dog Park (508 E. Live Oak)
• Dorsett Park (500 E. Harrison)
• Hill Street Parking Lot (Corner of Hill St. and Roosevelt Blvd.)

Debris crews will continue to work all day today removing debris throughout the City. Please be patient as additional preparations are being made with another storm approaching.

Mandatory Evacuation for Residential Healthcare Facilities A, B, and C

Pinellas County today issued a mandatory evacuation order for residential healthcare facilities in zones A, B, and C.
For more information, click here.

Pinellas County Schools Closed

Pinellas County Schools are closed through Wednesday, October 9th.

Trash Pickup Tomorrow / Meeting Cancellation

Trash Pickup:
Waste Management is bringing in additional trucks and will pick up trash only tomorrow, Monday 10/7. No yard waste or recycling. With the focus on trash only and extra crews, they should be able to pickup all trash citywide before the storm.

Heritage Preservation Board Meeting Cancelled
The Heritage Preservation Board Meeting scheduled for tomorrow, Monday, October 7th has been cancelled due to the storm.