National Hurricane Center
The Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber of Commerce released a list of Hurricane Idalia evacuation questions and answers for businesses along the barrier islands and in Zone A on the mainland. The Gabber Newspaper has reprinted the release in its entirety, with slight modifications for style and readability.
You must prepare your business and be evacuated by today (Aug. 29). Please lead by example and think of your staff in this stressful time.
When will they lift the bridges?
We do not lift the bridges. If officials decide to close the bridges (meaning no access back to the beaches after a certain time), officials will communicate this. Nevertheless, be smart and be safe.
Will our guests, customers and staff be able to come to the beach?
After the storm passes and officials give an “all clear” from Tampa Bay officials. In the case of limited access only to beach communities, you may have to show your re-entry pass.
Where should I send my guests?
Give them evacuation shelter information; Expedia has advice on traveling during a natural disaster. Make sure you suggest a Zone or area outside of evacuation Zone B (in case this worsens).
Do you know your Pinellas evacuation zone? You can find it here. • Read all The Gabber Newspaper’s Idalia updates.
Both Pinellas County and The Gabber Newspaper encourage residents and visitors to get their forecast updates at the National Hurricane Center. The NHC releases updated forecasts and advisories at 2 a.m., 5 a.m., 8 a.m., 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m., 8 p.m., and 11 p.m. We strongly discourage readers from taking weather advice from any other models.
Timely Holiday
Florida’s annual “Disaster Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday” will run through Friday, Sept. 8. That means Floridians can buy things such as generators, dish soap, and batteries without paying the state sales tax. Here’s the list of items included in the Disastar Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday.
