Sarasota Evacuations, School Closures, Shelters Opening: TS Idalia

SARASOTA COUNTY, FL — With Tropical Storm Idalia forecast to hit Florida’s Nature Coast — which runs from Pasco County to the Panhandle — Tuesday as a Category 3 storm, mandatory Level A evacuations have been issued in Sarasota County, officials said during a news conference Monday afternoon.

This includes the barrier islands, mobile and manufactured homes, and those living on boats. Residents can learn their evacuation level by using the “Know Your Evacuation Level” tool at scgov.net.
These and other “protective actions” are in place “out of an abundance of caution,” Rich Collins, the county’s emergency services director, said.

• Also Read: TS Idalia: Tampa, St. Pete Under Hurricane, Storm Surge Warnings

Closures

• Regular county operations will end Monday at 1 p.m. and remain closed Tuesday and Wednesday.
• The landfill will be closed Tuesday and there will be no trash collection services.

Sandbags

Sandbag operations will take place Monday, 2 to 7 p.m., and Tuesday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the following locations:

• Ed Smith Stadium
• Sarasota County Fleet Management in Venice
• Twin Oaks Park

Schools

All traditional public schools will close Tuesday and Wednesday to serve as evacuation centers.
This includes all after-school activities, including Monday’s activities and events.

Families of children attending charter schools should check directly with their school for updates on closures.

Shelters

All 12 evacuation shelters will open Tuesday at 8 a.m., while medically dependent evacuation centers will open at 7 a.m. A full list of centers can be found on the county website.

Those evacuating to shelters should bring their own emergency supplies, including food, bedding, medication, activities for children and items for pets.