Pinellas County Schools Affected by Hurricane Milton: Closures and Recovery Efforts

Pinellas County Schools have been significantly impacted by Hurricane Milton, leading to extended closures and various recovery efforts. As of October 14, 2024, Pinellas County Government offices, including all county parks and preserves, remain closed due to the storm’s aftermath. This closure affects all departments under the County Administrator, the Clerk’s Office, Property Appraiser, Tax Collector, and Supervisor of Elections.

The schools are part of the broader county-wide closures, with many county employees working in storm-related roles such as emergency management, safety, and emergency services. The Florida Department of Education is closely monitoring the situation and working with school districts to ensure they have the necessary resources to resume normal operations as quickly as possible.

A boil water notice has been issued by Pinellas County Utilities for all southern barrier island customers from John’s Pass to Tierra Verde, and by the City of St. Petersburg for residents of St. Petersburg, Gulfport, South Pasadena, and Lealman. This notice is a result of the hurricane’s impact on the water supply in the Tampa Bay area.

A Disaster Recovery Center, initially scheduled to open on October 7, will now open on October 14 at the Florida Botanical Gardens, Magnolia Room, to provide expanded services to affected residents. Additionally, FEMA assistance is available for residents who experienced damages or losses due to the hurricane, and can be applied for online, through the FEMA app, or by phone.

Residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and to follow important safety tips during and after the storm, including avoiding the use of water-damaged power outlets and reporting only life-threatening emergencies to 9-1-1).