Extreme Weather

Cold Night Shelters ║ Hot Weather Resources ║ Hurricane and Storm Resources

Weather Update

Pinellas County Emergency Management is actively monitoring Hurricane Isaias and remains in close communication with community partners as forecasts evolve. Updates and important preparedness information will be shared as they become available. Partners are encouraged to stay informed, remain prepared, and watch for additional communications throughout the weekend

Weather Briefing  Hurricane Isaias is moving ENE toward the Alabama/Florida Panhandle region at approximately 9 mph. While no significant direct impacts or wind impacts are forecast for Pinellas County, we may see increased rainfall, elevated tides, and isolated street flooding over the next couple of days—potentially similar to what we experienced during Tropical Storm Eta or the December 2023 flooding.

Ironically, much of our recent rainfall is not directly related to Hurricane Isaias, but rather an earlier wet front.

  • Rainfall: 1–2 inches, with isolated higher amounts, are possible across Pinellas County through Thursday, 10/08 and Friday, 10/09.

  • Flooding: A Flood Watch and Coastal Flood Advisory are in effect. Isolated flooding, including localized flash flooding, is possible, particularly in low-lying areas and locations with poor drainage.

  • High tides: Tides may run 1–3 feet above normal, with the greatest concern overnight Friday (10/09) into Saturday (10/10).

  • Severe weather: Pinellas County is at a Marginal Risk for excessive rainfall/flash flooding and a Marginal Risk for a weak or isolated tornado today.

  • Tornadoes/waterspouts: An isolated tornado or waterspout is possible today.

  • Boating: Hazardous conditions are expected in local waters over the next few days.

Mosquito/Dengue Response  With the additional rainfall and potential for standing water, we are also mindful of increased mosquito activity and the ongoing dengue response. We continue to work closely with the task force and community partners to monitor conditions and coordinate resources. Human Services has distributed more than 2,000 bottles of mosquito repellent and 800 mosquito dunks to our partners to support prevention efforts.  Please use mosquito repellent, use mosquito dunks where appropriate, and dump or drain standing water around your home, workplace, or other areas where water may collect. These simple steps can help reduce mosquito breeding and exposure.

Use caution when traveling through areas prone to flooding and continue to monitor changing conditions. As always, we will keep an eye on the situation and share any significant updates.

Finally, please only use trusted and vetted sources of information and avoid social media hype pages and unofficial maps. The National Hurricane Center remains the best source for accurate, ongoing storm information.

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Hurricane and Storm Resources

Hot Weather Resources

The Florida Department of Health says that “Extreme heat is one of the leading weather-related causes of death in the U.S., and Florida is particularly vulnerable due to its long summers and high humidity. These conditions can overwhelm the body’s cooling system, leading to heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions.” Resources below are intended to help lessen the impact of Florida’s extreme heat.

Tips for People Experiencing Homelessness During Extreme Heat from the National Integrated Heat Health Information System:

  • Avoid strenuous activity during the warmest part of the day

  • Use a buddy system when working in extreme heat, and take frequent breaks

  • Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays

  • Protect your face and head by wearing sunblock and a wide-brimmed hat

  • Work with your support network if you have one - neighbors, family and friends - to monitor and address your heat-related needs - have them check in with you regularly to ensure you are safe and healthy

  • Read the side effects of any medications and talk with your doctor about how heat exposure will interact with them

  • Know the phone numbers and locations for local medical facilities, such as hospitals, to create contingency plans if you cannot access a cooling center, or need more help

Safety Information:

Resources:

Cold Night Shelters

Pinellas Cold Night Shelters are a lifesaving program that provide those in-need with a warm, safe place to sleep on the coldest nights of the year. The Homeless Leadership Alliance of Pinellas (HLA) activates Cold Night Shelters when the National Weather Service predicts the “feels like” temperature will reach 40-degrees or colder between 6pm and 6am across Pinellas County.

Pinellas Cold Night Shelters are nontraditional, “pop-up” shelters inside of local churches, community centers, and emergency shelters. Pinellas Cold Night Shelters are located in Tarpon Springs, Clearwater, Pinellas Park, Kenneth City, and St. Petersburg. Each location provides guest with a blanket and mat, and many locations provide meals and additional supplies. When activated, Pinellas Cold Night Shelters are open between 6pm and 6am.

Cold Night Shelter Webpage