Pasco County Voluntary Evacuations Recommended For Michael

PASCO COUNTY, FL — Some voluntary evacuations have been recommended west of U.S. 19 in Pasco County ahead of Hurricane Michael.

According to the county, the evacuations were recommended as potentially life-threatening storm surge from Michael is expected to occur along the Gulf Coast overnight Tuesday into Wednesday evening.

"Vulnerable coastal areas are expected to be impacted regardless of the storm's exact track or strength," the county said in a statement.

Voluntary evacuations are recommended for the following areas:

• Anyone living west of U.S. 19 in areas vulnerable to potential storm surge
• Special needs residents living west of U.S. 19
• Anyone in low-lying areas along rivers or inland areas that have experienced flooding in the past
• Anyone living in a building that has experienced flooding following heavy rain

Residents should first try to find shelter with neighbors, relatives or friends, officials say. If those options are not available, the Fasano Regional Hurricane Shelter is located at 11611 Denton Avenue in Hudson.

Those who need special assistance can call the county for transportation at 727-847-2411. Residents can also call that number with any questions or concerns.

The county also said the following self-serve sandbag locations are open 24 hours a day until further notice:

• Fire Station #17, 2951 Seven Springs Blvd, New Port Richey
• Veterans Memorial Park, 14333 Hicks Rd, Hudson
• Magnolia Valley Golf Course Clubhouse, 7223 Massachusetts Ave, New Port Richey
• C-Barn, 30908 Warder Road, San Antonio

Photo via Shutterstock