Pinellas County officials have issued an urgent plea to residents in Zone A, who are under mandatory evacuation orders, to heed their warnings and evacuate the area before the arrival of Hurricane Helene. Despite the orders, there are still a significant number of individuals who have not yet left the area, prompting concerns for their safety.
Sheriff Bob Gualtieri emphasized the seriousness of the situation during a press conference, stating that too many people in Zone A are not listening to evacuation directives. He warned that there may come a point where individuals will be left to fend for themselves if they choose to remain in the area.
Cathie Perkins, the director of Pinellas County Emergency Management, stressed the urgency of the situation, urging remaining Zone A residents to evacuate by noon at the latest. She highlighted the increasing risk of flooding on roads and advised those who fail to evacuate to seek higher ground within their homes.
To facilitate the evacuation process, the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority will be operating a special bus service along the barrier islands, starting at 10:00 a.m. Officials have also mobilized high-water vehicles, shallow water boats, and rescue teams to assist residents during the storm.
Despite the county's preparedness efforts, officials cautioned residents against relying solely on county assistance if they choose not to evacuate. The safety and well-being of individuals in Zone A remain a top priority, and prompt evacuation is strongly advised to mitigate risks associated with Hurricane Helene.
