Hillsborough County, home to the bustling city of Tampa, is gearing up for potential evacuations as authorities brace for an approaching storm. The county's sheriff, Chad Chronister, announced on Sunday evening that mandatory evacuations will be initiated on Monday.
Sheriff Chronister emphasized the importance of heeding evacuation orders, stating, 'We want to give people at least 24 hours' amount of time to get to that safe area.' He urged residents who are considering staying behind to reconsider, emphasizing the risks involved in such a decision.
'If you want to gamble, there's plenty of avenues to do that, but don't gamble with you and your family's lives,' Sheriff Chronister cautioned. 'Please take the necessary precautions and make sure that you relocate somewhere else.'
Referencing the recent impact of Hurricane Helene on the region, Sheriff Chronister highlighted the ongoing recovery efforts and urged residents to prioritize safety and preparedness. 'We're still recovering. We're still healing from Hurricane Helene,' he noted. 'This isn't a time to panic, it's just a time to get prepared.'
As the community braces for potential disruptions and challenges posed by the impending storm, authorities are working diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of residents. Stay tuned for further updates and follow official guidance to navigate through this challenging time.
