Sandbag distribution sites are opening across the Bay Area as Tropical Storm Milton approaches Florida’s west coast. The storm could bring life-threatening conditions to the region next week, with heavy rainfall anticipated as early as Sunday.
As Tropical Storm Milton continues to strengthen in the Gulf, I have issued EO 24-214 ahead of potential landfall on Florida’s west coast this week. This EO declares a state of emergency in 35 Florida counties.
As many continue to recover from Hurricane Helene, I have directed…
— Ron DeSantis (@GovRonDeSantis) October 5, 2024
In Hillsborough County, sandbags will be available at E.G. Simmons Conservation Park, Ed Radice Sports Complex, and Larry Sanders Progress Village Sports Complex on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Residents can receive up to 10 sandbags per vehicle and must show ID verifying county residency.
🌀 10/06 Tropical Update – Tropical Storm #Milton will stay well to the south of our local area this week.
🌊 Locally, the #RipCurrent risk increases to a HIGH RISK Monday thru at least Thursday and surf builds to 4-7 feet by mid-week.
🖱️ https://t.co/nRNckMaxhp pic.twitter.com/Xafub7xXR3
— NWS Mobile (@NWSMobile) October 6, 2024
The City of Tampa will have sandbag sites open at Himes Avenue Complex and Al Barnes Park on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Multiple sandbag locations will be open in counties preparing for potential Tropical Storm #Milton impacts.
Use gloves & wear protective eyewear if conditions are windy. Use the guidance below to prepare effectively.
Visit https://t.co/wnEJCeUOmN to find county-run sites. pic.twitter.com/uKXu3rUJDR
— FL Division of Emergency Management (@FLSERT) October 5, 2024
Manatee County residents can get sandbags at the Public Works Annex on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Distribution is limited to 10 bags per car, and a valid ID showing City residency is required. Pasco County has several self-serve sandbag locations open 24/7, including Magnolia Valley Golf Course and Pasco County Public Works (C-Barn).
Sandbag pick-up for storm preparation
Additional sites will be open from sunrise to sunset on Saturday at Veterans Memorial Park and Pasco Fire Rescue Station #29. In Pinellas County, sandbag sites will be open for unincorporated residents only on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at John Chesnut Park and Walsingham Park. Residents are encouraged to bring their own shovels.
County officials remind residents to clear storm drains and keep sandbags on hand through the end of hurricane season. As Tropical Storm Milton approaches, it is important to stay safe and informed.
