In anticipation of Hurricane Helene, Pinellas County officials have declared a mandatory evacuation for residents in Zone A and those living in mobile homes. With the storm expected to bring an unprecedented surge of five to eight feet, officials are urging residents to evacuate before Thursday morning to ensure their safety. Last year, Hurricane Idalia caused significant flooding, with four feet of storm surge impacting over 1,500 homes in the area. The county's leaders are taking the threat seriously, emphasizing that this storm could lead to even greater devastation. Residents have been informed that failure to evacuate could put their lives at risk.

The evacuation order reflects a growing concern for public safety as the hurricane approaches. As authorities prepare for potential impacts, they are reminding residents to stay informed and heed warnings. This proactive approach aims to minimize the impact of the storm on the community.