Pinellas County issued a stern warning to residents on Thursday following the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, which left the county in shambles. An emergency alert was issued urging all residents to remain sheltered due to severe damages countywide.
The alert highlighted that many roads were impassable due to downed power lines, fallen trees, and debris. Areas such as St. Pete, Gulfport, and Lealman were reported to be without water. Residents were strongly advised to stay off the roads until instructed otherwise by county officials to allow emergency responders and crews to carry out rescue and recovery operations effectively.
Pinellas County, located in the Tampa Bay area, was not far from where Hurricane Milton made landfall as a devastating Category 3 hurricane. The impact of the storm was felt across the region, with significant damage reported in various areas.
In neighboring Tampa, which experienced an 'unprecedented' number of power outages, city officials also issued a blunt warning to residents. They urged individuals not to travel or return home until it was deemed safe to do so by public safety officials.
The aftermath of Hurricane Milton has prompted authorities to prioritize safety and recovery efforts across the affected areas. Residents are urged to heed the warnings and instructions provided by local officials to ensure their well-being and the efficient delivery of emergency services.