In response to imminent flood concerns triggered by sustained rainfall, Hillsborough County will distribute sandbags today and tomorrow to its residents. This preventive measure is made in anticipation of the flood warning issued by the National Weather Service for the Alafia River at Lithia, from this morning to Friday afternoon, and the Little Manatee River at U.S. 301 in Wimauma, from this afternoon until the evening tomorrow.
Sandbags will be available at four designated locations: Ed Radice Sports Complex, Edward Medard Conservation Park, E.G. Simmons Conservation Park, and Larry Sanders Sports Complex. According to a statement obtained by Hillsborough County, these facilities will operate from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. for the specific purpose of sandbag collection by the residents.
Residents who wish to avail themselves of the sandbags will need to present identification confirming their residence within the county; acceptable forms of ID include a driver's license or a utility bill. A cap has been set at a maximum of ten sandbags per family. The four access points will suspend other visitor activities, solely opening for those seeking sandbag aid today and tomorrow.
Furthermore, the county urges locals to hold onto any extra sandbags through the end of the 2025 hurricane season, ostensibly preparing for future weather challenges. The sandbag distribution initiative underscores the region's attention to disaster preparedness and the proactive steps being taken to mitigate flooding impact on communities.
