Charlotte County will open storm shelters in Port Charlotte at 1 p.m. Wednesday in preparation for Tropical Storm Helene, which is forecast to become a hurricane.
Charlotte County Emergency Management has ordered evacuations for barrier islands, low-lying and flood-prone areas, manufactured homes, and any homes that may not withstand high winds, such as those that may be comprised from previous storms.
MORE : Get the latest weather forecast
This includes those living on the barrier islands of Don Pedro Island, Knight Islands (Palm Island), Little Gasparilla Island, Gasparilla Island, and Manasota Key, as well as residents in any zone living in mobile homes, manufactured homes and trailers. It is advised you stay with friends and family members who live outside of evacuation areas or flood zones, in a well-constructed home. If you have no place to go, shelters are refuges of last resort.
MORE : NBC2 First Alert Hurricane Guide+
The following shelter locations will open Sept. 25 at 1 p.m.:
- Kingsway Elementary School 23300 Quasar Blvd., Port Charlotte
- Harold Avenue Regional Park Recreation Center 23400 Harold Ave., Port Charlotte
If you choose to go a shelter you will need to bring supplies for each family member and pets (all Charlotte County shelters are pet friendly).
- Sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and/or blankets and pillow
- Personal flashlight and headlamps
- Disinfectant supplies, hand sanitizer, soap
- Toothbrush/toothpaste
- Feminine hygiene products
- Cell phones, chargers, backup battery
- Extra sets of clothes suitable for the season
- Extra socks and sturdy shoes
- Food or snacks (72+ hours’ worth)
- Books or magazine
- Prescription medications, eyeglasses
- Important documents
- Water
If you will have pets, be sure to bring:
- Pet care items
- Pet food and water (at least two weeks' worth)
- Proper identification
- Medical records, microchip info, vaccination papers
- A carrier or cage
- Muzzle and leash
- Water and food bowls
- Medications
Call the Charlotte County Emergency Operations Center at 941-833-4000. Those with internet access can find information on resources at www.CharlotteCountyFL.gov/storm .