PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – Pinellas County Utilities is shutting off potable water service to the southern barrier islands, including St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island, and Tierra Verde, due to extensive damage from Hurricane Helene. The water supply will be cut off starting at 8 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 27, as the system is running out of water. Residents and businesses in these areas will be without potable water until repairs can be completed.
These communities remain under a county evacuation order, though the order has been lifted for mobile homes and Zone A residents. However, all barrier islands are still under the evacuation order at this time. Special bus transportation will be available starting at 6 p.m. tonight to help residents leave the islands. Details can be found on the county’s website.
Read: Pinellas County Barrier Islands Remain Closed, Transportation Offered For Evacuation
Water service to fire lines, including fire hydrants, will also be affected, and two emergency tankers will be stationed for fire response. Water pressure will drop after 8 p.m., and any remaining water will need to be boiled before use. A boil water notice will be issued when the shutdown begins.
The Gulf Beach Water Booster Station in St. Pete Beach was damaged by flooding and storm surge from the hurricane, and repair efforts are underway. Hundreds of damaged pipes buried in sand require excavation before repairs can be completed. Private water lines in some homes and businesses have also been broken, potentially delaying restoration for some residents.
Residents who have not yet evacuated are strongly encouraged to do so, as the lack of potable water poses significant health and safety risks.
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