TAMPA, Fla. — Some emergency shelters are planning to open as Hurricane Elsa continues to move west-northwest with expected impacts on Florida.
A tropical storm warning has been issued for parts of the Florida Keys and the west coast of Florida, including around Tampa Bay.
RELATED: ELSA PREP LIVE BLOG
Manatee County
An emergency shelter will open at Manatee High School at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, July 6 for those who live in mobile homes, low-lying areas, or areas prone to flooding. The pet-friendly shelter is located at 902 33rd Street Court West, in Bradenton.
Residents on the Special Needs Registry are being contacted to set up arrangements for evacuation to the county’s special needs shelter.
Shelters will have increased spacing as demand allows for social distancing, masks are encouraged and will be provided and if people feel ill they will be separated into other rooms.
Pinellas County
Two shelters in the county will open at 9 a.m. on Tuesday for those in need of emergency shelter from Hurricane Elsa.
The first site at Lealman Exchange, 5175 46th Street North in St. Petersburg, will be open to the general public, those with special needs and pets. A second site at the Ross Norton Recreation Center, 1426 South Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue in Clearwater, will be open to the general population.
The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority(PSTA) is offering free rides to the shelters starting at 9 a.m. Tuesday.
Hillsborough County
An emergency storm shelter will open at 8 a.m. Tuesday, July 6 for residents who are concerned about staying in their homes.
COVID-19 protocols like health screenings and temperature checks will be in place at the shelter located at Riverview High School: 11311 Boyette Road. Face coverings will also be required by those seeking shelter.
In addition to COVID-19 protocols, officials recommend bringing necessities such as:
- Bedding
- Clothing
- Toiletries
- Medications
- Special dietary foods
- Baby supplies
- Important paperwork
- Stuff for children to occupy time
Pets are welcome but must have a sturdy carrier, proof of rabies vaccine, supplies, a license and be on a leash.
Anyone who needs transportation to the shelter can call 813-272-5900 for transportation assistance.
Pasco County
A hurricane shelter is opening at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 6 as a last resort for anyone wanting to leave their homes during Hurricane Elsa.
The shelter will be located at the Mike Fasano Regional Hurricane Shelter, 11611 Denton Avenue. Transportation will not be provided so county leaders say people will have to plan accordingly.
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