Hurricane Milton: Latest Evacuation Updates for Tampa Bay Area

Hurricane Milton Approaches: Mandatory Evacuations Issued Across Tampa Bay Area

As Hurricane Milton inches closer to the Tampa Bay area, local officials are urging residents to take immediate action to ensure their safety. With winds expected to intensify and heavy rainfall forecasted, mandatory evacuation orders have been issued across multiple counties.

Evacuation Orders by County

Hillsborough County
A mandatory evacuation for Zones A and B, as well as all mobile homes and manufactured housing, began at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, October 7. Residents are urged to leave as soon as possible to avoid the impending storm.

Manatee County
Emergency managers have called for the evacuation of all individuals in Levels A, B, and C, including those in RVs or mobile homes. This precaution aims to protect residents from potential storm surge and flooding.

Pasco County
Mandatory evacuations are now in effect for Zones A, B, and C. This includes anyone living in manufactured homes, mobile homes, RVs, or low-lying areas, which are particularly vulnerable to flooding.

Pinellas County
Effective immediately, all residents in Zones A, B, and C, along with those living in mobile homes, are under a mandatory evacuation order. Residents are encouraged to seek shelter and evacuate promptly.

Sarasota County
Officials have extended evacuation orders to include Level C. All residents in Levels A, B, and C, as well as those in manufactured communities or mobile and boat homes, must evacuate.

Hernando County
Starting Tuesday at 8 a.m., mandatory evacuations will be enforced for all areas west of US 19, including Zones A, B, and C. Residents in coastal and low-lying areas, as well as those in manufactured homes, are included in this order.

Understanding Evacuation Orders

It’s crucial for residents to understand the difference between mandatory and voluntary evacuations.

• Voluntary Evacuations: Recommended for those in mobile homes or flood-prone areas when the storm’s impact is uncertain.

• Mandatory Evacuations: Issued when the risk of storm surge is high, posing a significant threat to life. Residents in these zones must evacuate immediately, as staying behind can lead to severe consequences.

Under Florida Statute 252.38, it is illegal to remain in a home under a mandatory evacuation order. Law enforcement will focus on assisting those who comply with the evacuation, but they have the authority to remove individuals who impede the evacuation process.

Shelters and Resources

Shelters are opening across the area to accommodate evacuees. Residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with their evacuation zones and have a plan in place. For more information on evacuation zones and available shelters, visit the Florida Disaster website.

As Hurricane Milton approaches, local authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety of all residents. Stay informed, stay safe, and heed evacuation orders as they are issued.