Pinellas County health officials have issued mandatory evacuation orders for medical facilities located in the most vulnerable coastal regions as Hurricane Milton approaches. In a preventive move to safeguard patients, the directive applies to six hospitals, 25 nursing homes, and 44 assisted living facilities situated within evacuation zones A, B, and C, according to Pinellas County. The escalating situation affects approximately 6,600 patients who are currently receiving care in these areas.
The county's decision comes as disaster recovery efforts from the recent Hurricane Helene remain ongoing, with the new threat of Hurricane Milton poised to possibly undo the already tenuous progress. Mandatory evacuations are limited to healthcare facilities at this time, but Pinellas County is advocating for voluntary evacuations for other residents in the same zones — A, B, and C — as well as those living in mobile homes. These precautionary measures come ahead of potential mandatory orders that may be enacted as early as Monday.
With localized flooding and potentially deadly storm surge on the horizon, county officials urge at-risk individuals to move to safer grounds, highlighting that even a few miles can mean the difference between the direct impact zone and relative safety. Staying outside of Zone C could offer crucial protection against the hurricane-force winds that are forecasted if Milton takes its projected path.
Despite the urgency, the county infrastructure is prepared to assist in the evacuation process. Emergency shelters will become operational for those requiring assistance or without an alternative, as confirmed by local authorities.