What To Know
- Residents in Zone C may not need to evacuate, but they should monitor the storm’s progress and be prepared to take action if necessary.
- If you live in Zone B or C, you should also monitor the storm’s progress and be prepared to evacuate if conditions worsen.
- If you cannot evacuate, you should take shelter in a safe location, such as an interior room on the highest floor of your home.
Tampa International Airport (TPA) is located in Zone A of Hillsborough County’s hurricane evacuation zones. This zone includes the coastal areas of Tampa Bay, including the cities of Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater.
Evacuation Zones and Procedures
Evacuation zones are designated by local governments to identify areas that may be impacted by hurricanes or other natural disasters. Residents within each zone are advised to evacuate to designated shelters or safe locations when an evacuation order is issued.
Zone A: This zone is at the highest risk of flooding and storm surge during hurricanes. Residents in Zone A should evacuate as early as possible when an evacuation order is issued.
Zone B: This zone is at a moderate risk of flooding and storm surge. Residents in Zone B should be prepared to evacuate if conditions worsen.
Zone C: This zone is at a low risk of flooding and storm surge. Residents in Zone C may not need to evacuate, but they should monitor the storm’s progress and be prepared to take action if necessary.
Evacuation Routes and Shelters
When an evacuation order is issued, residents should follow designated evacuation routes to reach safe locations. Evacuation routes and shelter locations can be found on the Hillsborough County website: https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/residents/public-safety/emergency-management/hurricane-preparedness/evacuation-zones.
Staying Informed
It is crucial to stay informed about hurricane forecasts and evacuation orders. The following resources provide up-to-date information:
- Hillsborough County Emergency Management: https://www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/residents/public-safety/emergency-management
- National Hurricane Center: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
- Tampa Bay Times Hurricane Hub: https://www.tampabay.com/hurricane/
What to Do if You Are in Zone A
If you live in Zone A, it is essential to take the following steps:
- Have an evacuation plan in place and know where you will go if an evacuation order is issued.
- Gather essential supplies, including food, water, first aid kits, and medications.
- Secure your home and property.
- Monitor the storm’s progress and be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
What to Do if You Are in Zone B or C
If you live in Zone B or C, you should also monitor the storm’s progress and be prepared to evacuate if conditions worsen. You should also gather essential supplies and secure your home and property.
Wrap-Up: Preparing for the Unexpected
Hurricanes are a part of life in Tampa Bay. By understanding your evacuation zone and taking the necessary precautions, you can help ensure your safety and the safety of your family. Remember, it is always better to be prepared than to be caught off guard.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: What is the difference between an evacuation order and an evacuation warning?
A: An evacuation order means that you should leave the area immediately. An evacuation warning means that you should be prepared to evacuate if conditions worsen.
Q: What should I do if I cannot evacuate?
A: If you cannot evacuate, you should take shelter in a safe location, such as an interior room on the highest floor of your home.
Q: Where can I find more information about hurricane preparedness?
A: You can find more information on the Hillsborough County Emergency Management website: https://www.hillsboroughcounty.
