Latest Storm Information

This webpage was updated Oct. 5 at 2:55 p.m.

Tropical Storm Milton Forms in the Gulf

Milton 2024

As we continue the recovery process from Hurricane Helene, we now turn our eyes toward Tropical Storm Milton in the Gulf of Mexico. The storm formed today and is expected to grow into a hurricane in the next few days. Impacts could be felt in our area. It is important for residents to keep up with the latest forecasts and also to always follow the recommendations of emergency management officials when it comes to what actions to take in the event of an approaching tropical storm or hurricane.

The city of Clearwater has experienced significant storm impacts from Hurricane Helene. Recovery efforts continue.

Residents can contact the city information center at 727-562-4682 with general questions from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

    Solid Waste & Recycling Updates


    Clearwater Barrier Island: Move Vehicles Away From Debris Near Roadways

    Clearwater's debris removal contractor is working out at Clearwater Beach today and is unable to make it through some of the streets, due to cars being parked near the debris and blocking the roadways. If you're out at the beach, please move your vehicles and do not park near debris, so that our crews can get through.

    If you're going to the Clearwater barrier island, please keep in mind that parking lots are unavailable to the public because they're being used as staging locations for excess sand. If you don't have to go to the barrier island, you may want to reconsider going. The less people out there, the quicker and more efficiently our crews can work.

    Residential Solid Waste Collection Schedule Updates

    • Black barrels/solid waste: On Schedule
    • Blue barrels/recycling: Resumes Oct. 7
    • Yard waste: Behind Schedule

    If you've put trash or yard debris in your recycling bin because you had so much during the storm, it needs to be removed and put in your black barrel. It is important that recycling bins contain only recyclable materials and that our collections are as clean as possible. Visit MyClearwater.com/Recycling to see what can go in your blue bin.

    Please be patient with our crews as they make progress on their collection routes citywide. Crews are currently still working on Monday's vegetation debris.

    Debris Disposal

    • The city’s disposal contractor started picking up demolition debris Oct. 1 on Island Estates, Clearwater Beach and Sand Key and will continue until debris is cleared.
    • Make sure your debris is separated into piles.
      • Residential Customers: Demolition debris includes carpet, drywall, furniture, mattresses, plumbing and other building materials. Different vendors are collecting different types of debris. If the debris is not sorted, it will hamper our pickup efforts and slow down the process to get back to normal.
      • Commercial Customers: Contract with your private contractor to remove debris off your property/business. 

    • The Pinellas County Solid Waste Disposal Complex cannot accept storm-related debris from residents or private haulers. The facility is not an approved site for storm debris disposal.

    • Place debris in the right-of-way not in the street, clear from power lines, utilities, mailboxes, cars, fire hydrants, trees, shrubs, etc. Not doing so could hinder solid waste from accessing your road and servicing debris.

    • All residential recycling collections are suspended at this time.

    • Household hazardous waste doesn’t belong at the curb. When chemicals are close together such as chlorine and gasoline, they can become incredibly dangerous to you and our crews.

    This graphic below is applicable to residential customers only, not commercial.

     

    curbside debris sorting

    Commercial Haulers

    The Pinellas County Solid Waste Disposal Complex cannot accept storm-related debris from residents or private haulers. The facility is not an approved site for storm debris disposal.

    Household Appliances

    • Anclote Metal Recycling, 806 Anclote Rd, Tarpon Springs | (727) 938-2822

    • Best Metal Recycling (Clearwater), 15122 63rd St. N., Clearwater | (727) 524-2550

    • Best Metal Recycling (Tarpon Springs), 1599 Rainville Rd., Tarpon Springs | (727) 937-6962

    • Trademark Metal (Clearwater), 2032 Gentry St., Clearwater | (727) 447-6960

    • Trademark Metal (Pinellas Park), 9380 67th St. N., Pinellas Park | (727) 544-5810

    Construction & Demolition Debris Disposal

    The following locations are available for commercial haulers:

    • Angelo’s Recycled Materials, GFL Environmental, 1755 20th Ave. SE, Largo | (727) 588-9529

    • Sarnago & Sons, 1741 N. Keene Road, Clearwater | (727) 446-4909

    • Waste Management, 12950 40th St., Clearwater | (727) 572-8779

    Damaged or Missing Solid Waste and Recycling Barrels

    Every residential home in Clearwater should have a black barrel trash can and a blue recycling cart. If yours were damaged during the storm or is missing, request one online at https://myclearwater.info/requestabin or by calling us at (727) 562-4920. There has been an increase in requests after the storm, so please allow staff additional time to arrange a replacement.

    How to Dispose of Hazardous Waste

    Residents can take hazardous chemicals and items like lithium-ion batteries to Pinellas County Solid Waste for proper recycling and disposal. Dropping materials off at their two locations is free.

    Residents can take hazardous chemicals and items to Pinellas County Solid Waste for proper recycling and disposal. Dropping materials off at these two locations is free:

    • Household Hazardous Waste Center: Drop off materials from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays to Fridays and the first and third Saturday of each month, at 2855 109th Ave. N. in St. Petersburg.
    • Household Chemical Collection Events: These events are held throughout Pinellas County on select Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Events are held Oct. 12, Oct. 26, Nov. 23 and Dec. 14, at 29582 U.S. 19 N., Clearwater. 

    This collection program is for Pinellas County households only. Businesses, hobbyists, haulers, and nonprofits should visit the Pinellas County's Business Collection webpage.

    Electronics with lithium-ion batteries or small rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that were affected by water due to Hurricane Helene should be disposed of at the Pinellas County Household Hazardous Waste Facility at 2855 109th Ave. N., St. Petersburg, FL. (Open Tuesday through Friday and the first & third Saturdays only 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.)

    Large lithium-ion batteries such as car batteries, lawnmower batteries, E-bike batteries affected by the storm must be disposed of by a private sector recycling company. 

    • Caution: Lithium-ion batteries pose a fire risk when exposed to saltwater or damaged. 

    If hazardous items are left at the curb, Clearwater Solid Waste crews will not pick them up. Hazardous items have the potential to catch on fire, damage city equipment, and injure or kill our employees. Lithium-ion batteries pose a fire risk when exposed to saltwater or damaged. Please dispose of hazardous materials safely and properly.

    How to Dispose of Propane Tanks

    Do not dispose of tanks in garbage unless they are completely empty with valve removed because tanks can explode or catch fire.

    SMALL TANKS (up to 1 lb.) such as a camping stove tank:

    MEDIUM TANKS (2-20 lbs.) such as a barbecue grill or turkey fryer tank:

    • Many propane distribution centers, including convenience stores, will take back old tanks. Please contact them directly for more information. 

    LARGE TANKS (over 20 lbs.) such as a commercial heating tank:

    • Call your propane distributor to request that it be removed for a fee.  You can find their name on a tank decal or stamp.
                

     

    FEMA, Resources & Disaster Assistance

    FEMA to Open Registration Assistance Points

    The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Pinellas County and local partners have coordinated to open six sites around Pinellas County Saturday, Oct. 5, to expand access to federal application assistance.

    The six federal registration assistance points will open at 9 a.m. Saturday and operate until 7 p.m. each day throughout the week. Staff will will be available to help residents navigate applying for FEMA assistance.

    Assistance site locations are:

    • Gulfport Public Library: 5501 28th Ave S., Gulfport
    • Enoch D Davis Center: 1111 18th Ave S. St. Petersburg
    • Palm Harbor Parks and Recreation: 1500 16th St., Palm Harbor
    • City of Madeira Beach Recreation Center: 200 Rex Place, Madeira Beach
    • City of South Pasadena: 7047 Sunset Drive S., South Pasadena
    • Oldsmar Public Library: 400 St. Petersburg Drive E., Oldsmar

    Residents looking for updates on their application should visit the Disaster Recovery Center. For more information about the Disaster Recovery Center, visit disaster.pinellas.gov.

    Residents can register for FEMA assistance online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov, via the FEMA app or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).

    FEMA Disaster Recovery Center Relocates

    This section was updated at 10:45 p.m. Oct. 7.

    Disaster Recovery Center to change locations

    The Disaster Recovery Center at the Largo Public Library closed Oct. 5and will reopen at 9 a.m. Monday, Oct. 7, at the Florida Botanical Gardens, Magnolia Room, 12520 Ulmerton Road Largo. The center will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday at the new location.

    Disaster recovery centers serve as centralized locations where people can access various services and information related to disaster recovery, including: 

    • Information and Guidance: Disaster recovery centers provide information on available disaster assistance programs and resources.
    • Application Assistance: You can receive help with applying for federal disaster assistance programs, such as FEMA grants and low-interest loans from the Small Business Administration disaster recovery center staff can assist you in completing the necessary paperwork and explaining the application process.
    • Translation and Accessibility Services: The disaster recovery center offers translation services for individuals with limited English proficiency. They also provide accommodations for people with disabilities to ensure equal access to assistance.
    • Status Updates: If you have already applied for assistance, you can check the status of your application at a DRC.
    • Access to Disaster-related Resources: The center will have informational materials, pamphlets, and brochures that can help you better understand the recovery process and available resources. Disaster recovery center staff can refer you to other local, state, and federal agencies or organizations providing additional assistance, such as housing, legal services, and counseling.
    • Access to Computers and Phones: The disaster recovery center offers computer access and phone services, allowing you to complete online applications.

    When visiting a disaster recovery center, it's a good idea to bring identification, proof of residence, insurance information, and any documentation related to your disaster-related losses to facilitate the application process and ensure you receive the appropriate assistance.

    Residents can register for FEMA assistance online at DisasterAssistance.gov, via the FEMA app or by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).

    Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance is now available to Pinellas County residents who experienced damages/losses due to Hurricane Helene. Disaster assistance may include financial help for temporary lodging, basic home repairs and other disaster-caused expenses. Eligible residents can apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, using the FEMA app or by phone at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).

    Help is available in most languages. If you use video relay service (VRS), captioned telephone service or others, give FEMA your number for that service. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time, seven days a week. 

    Housing for Displaced Residents

    Pinellas County has posted a list of resources to help displaced people find short- and long-term housing options, including online search tools, real estate company information, short-term rental companies, and apartment listings. Realtors and property managers are responsible for updating their available listings on their websites, but the listings and resources allow residents to more easily locate potential housing options. 

    See Pinellas.gov/hurricane housing.

    State of Florida "Insurance Village" Resource Center: Oct. 4-6

    The State of Florida is hosting multiple insurance providers at an “Insurance Village” resource center in Clearwater. The goal is to help hurricane-impacted residents expedite the filing of insurance claims.

    The insurance resource center is open to disaster victims who live in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties. The resource center will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day starting Friday, Oct. 4 through Sunday, Oct. 6., at the Long Center, 1501 N. Belcher Road in Clearwater.

    Policyholders should bring as much documentation as they can:

    • A driver’s license or other form of identification, such as a passport or state-issued ID
    • Insurance cards and insurance policy information/documentation
    • Pictures or documentation of the property being claimed as a loss resulting from Hurricane Helene
    • Repair estimates
    • Any additional insurance-related information that is readily accessible

    Here is the listing of insurance companies that will be in attendance:

    • AAA
    • Allstate/Castle Key
    • American Integrity
    • American Traditions
    • Assurant
    • Citizens Property Insurance Corporation
    • Florida Farm Bureau
    • Florida Peninsula/Edison
    • Frontline/First Protective
    • GEICO
    • Heritage Flood
    • Heritage Insurance
    • Homeowners Choice/TypTap
    • Homesite
    • Kin Insurance
    • Monarch
    • National General/Beyond Flood
    • Neptune Flood
    • People's Trust
    • Progressive/ASI
    • SafePoint
    • Security First Insurance Company
    • Slide Insurance
    • Southern Oak
    • State Farm
    • Tower Hill
    • Universal P&C
    • US Coastal/Safe Harbor/Orange
    • USAA
    • Wright National Flood

    Other insurance-related entities will be there, too:

    • Department of Business & Professional Regulation
    • DFS Division of Consumer Services
    • DFS Criminal Investigations Division
    • Insurance Consumer Advocate
    • National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP/FEMA)
    • Profile Gorilla
      Office of Insurance Regulation
      The Office of Senator Rick Scott

    Attendees are also invited to bring electronics for charging in the waiting areas. Parking is available at the Long Center, and an overflow parking lot is available next door at the Salvation Army, just north of the Long Center on Belcher Road in Clearwater.

     

    Crisis Cleanup

    • Crisis Cleanup has activated the Hurricane Helene Cleanup Hotline: (844) 965-1386. This is for people who need help cleaning up damage from the Hurricane Helene and connects people with volunteers from local relief organizations, community groups and faith communities who may be able assist with jobs such as cleaning up, trees, tarp, and debris. All services are free, but service is not guaranteed. This hotline will remain open through Friday, Oct. 11.
    • Please note: This hotline cannot assist with social services, such as food, clothing, shelter, insurance, or questions about FEMA registration. Volunteers work free of charge and provide the tools and equipment necessary to complete the work.

    Sewer Credit

    You may qualify for a sewer credit adjustment if you have had a leak or unusual usage of potable water at your location that has not entered the city’s sewer system. If you have received a bill with a high sewer charge, a sewer credit adjustment has the potential to adjust the sewer portion of your bill back to your location’s average sewer consumption.

    Learn More

                 

     

    Rebuilding After the Storm.png

     

    Read Our Flyer About What To Know To Rebuild in Clearwater(PDF, 169KB)

     

    Report Storm Damage

    • Clearwater residents can report storm damage via Clearwater Connect. For general Clearwater-specific questions, you can call our call center at (727) 562-4682 Saturday until 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
    • Questions about the countywide response or ways to help can be made to the County Information Center at (727) 464-4333.
    • For immediate emergencies, always call 911.

    MyClearwater.info/ReportHeleneDamage

    Report a Water Leak

    If you suspect or see a water leak, report it immediately to (727) 462-6633.

    Contractors & Rebuilding After The Storm

    The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and city of Clearwater have flood damage prevention regulations that may affect how you remodel, renovate or add on to your building in order to better protect lives and investment from future flood damages.  

    • The city of Clearwater requires a permit for any new building, addition, remodeling, demolition or work in excess of $500 or that would require an inspection.  

    • Make sure contractors are licensed by verifying them at ContractorSearch.pcclb.com. 

    • Avoid becoming a victim of post-storm scams! Residents who suspect price gouging can report it by calling the Pinellas County Consumer Protection at (727) 464-6200 or online at pinellas.gov/consumer and also to the Attorney General’s hotline at 1-866-9-NO-SCAM. 

    What To Do With The Sand

    From Pinellas County: Many barrier island residents and businesses had unprecedented amounts of beach sand deposited onto their properties during Hurricane Helene. Here is what you can do with this precious resource.

    Return the sand to the beach

    • Clean sand can be returned to the beach above the high tide line (mean high water line). The sand must not have stains, odors or include debris, and you must not place it over dune plants, turtle nests, storm debris or construction debris.
    • If the sand does not meet the criteria above, you must request permission from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (850-245-2094 or email CCCL@FloridaDEP.gov). Once you have permission, the same placement restrictions apply. Failure to follow these rules may result in civil penalties.
    • If you are using heavy equipment, be cautious of buried water lines and other infrastructure.

    Important restrictions

    • Do not put sand in your trash.
    • Do not place sand in any right-of-way or push it onto the road.
    • Do not attempt to clear public roads. Our Public Works department is working on an authorization from Florida Department of Environmental Protection to screen clean sand to remove debris and return it to the beach.

    Sea Wall Damage

    • If the seaward side of a property’s seawall is exposed, residents should consult a structural engineer or licensed marine contractor before covering the wall with sand. 

    • Placing sand on a damaged seawall could cause further and costly damage. 

    Avoid Becoming a Victim of a Post-Storm Scam

    Avoid becoming a victim of post-storm scams! Residents are protected by the state’s price gouging law. Residents who suspect price gouging can report it by calling the Pinellas County Consumer Protection at (727) 464-6200 or online at www.pinellas.gov/consumer and are also encouraged to report it to the Attorney General’s hotline at 1-866-9-NO-SCAM.
    Effective only during a declared state of emergency, the price gouging law bans unconscionable prohibits sharp increases in the price of essential commodities, such as food, water, shelter, ice, gasoline, lumber and equipment that is needed as a direct result of an official declared emergency. Violators are subject to civil penalties of $1,000 per violation, up to a total of $25,000 for multiple violations committed in a single 24-hour period.
    Also, be wary of solicitations for charitable contributions on behalf of Hurricane Helene. All charities soliciting within Florida – excluding religious, educational, political and governmental agencies entities – are required to register and file financial information with the with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. To check whether a charitable organization is properly registered, visit Check-A-Charity, a resource that provides the information reported to the department.
      

     

    Clearwater Beach Is Slowly Re-Opening

    Clearwater Beach Re-Entry Update

    The Clearwater Beach you know and love is being restored to its natural beauty. It will take time for this recovery to occur, but progress is being made everyday. The roadways will continue to be active with construction, clean up crews, and resources helping our beach residents and business owners. Recovery crews will be operating in many of the public parking lots and ultimately on the public bathing beach when we begin to return sifted sand to the beach.

    If you chose to visit the public bathing beach, please be cautious and recognize the risks. There still could be debris, contamination, dirty sand and bacteria in the water. Lifeguard services have not yet returned to normal operations. There are no public restrooms that survived the storm.

    Watch the Press Conference about the Reopening of the Barrier Islands

    • Areas of Clearwater Beach, Island Estates and Sand Key may still be without power or have intermittent power.
    • Water is operational and drinkable, but there may be very low water pressure. Residents are asked to reduce their use of water and not to drain pools, do loads of laundry, or take baths (short showers are preferred).
    • Pier 60 is closed due to the damage it sustained during the storm.
    • Public parking lots are closed as they are being used for equipment storage, contaminated sand storage and clean-up operations.
    • There are a large amount of clean-up and response vehicles on the beach roadways, and vehicles should proceed with caution.
    • If your home has experienced significant flooding turning off your main breaker provides an added level of safety as power to the area is restored. Never attempt to access your breaker panel if it is wet or near water.
    • City crews are working around the clock to make conditions safe enough for reopening. We appreciate your patience.

    When Returning to Your Clearwater Beach Home or Business

    • Don't Drive Through Flood Waters. Never drive through flood waters; turn around, don't drown. If you must drive and it is safe to do so, use Waze app or website for latest road and bridge closure information.
    • Continue to Conserve Water. When returning to Clearwater Beach, make a significant effort to conserve water in order to reduce stress on the city's wastewater system.
    • Looting: Our police communication center has received calls from Clearwater barrier island residents who are reporting "looting" after they've placed items for disposal at the curb and a random person takes it. Clearwater Police Department would like to clarify: it is not considered "looting," theft, or any other crime when someone takes items that you leave at the curb for disposal. Looting happens when someone forcefully enters a home or business with the intent to steal from or sack it. We want the community to understand the difference and report criminal activity appropriately.
    • Do Not Speed: Heavy equipment is active on the beach for recovery efforts, and operators may not be able to react quickly. Help us keep everyone safe by slowing down and staying aware.  We’ve noticed increased speeding on the beaches. Treat every intersection with an inoperable traffic signal as a four-way stop. Drive cautiously and remain alert. 
    • Electricity. Be advised that the power is out and there are a few traffic lights and signals that are still not functioning. Drive with caution and treat each intersection as a four-way stop.
    • Building Stability and Use Caution. Buildings have not been inspected for structural integrity. Re-enter your property at your own risk and use extreme caution.
    • Unlicensed Contractors. They often target homeowners following a storm. Ensure that any contractors you hire for repairs are properly licensed. Find out if they are licensed here.
    •  Generators. Outages are affecting multiple neighborhoods, especially in Clearwater Beach. Keep generators in well-ventilated locations outside, away from all doors, windows and vent openings. Do not operate during high winds and rain. Turn off generators and let them cool down before refueling. Never refuel a generator while it is hot.
    • Drones: Drones are not allowed on Clearwater Beach, and we especially discourage their use during recovery efforts. Our crews are working tirelessly to restore the beach, and unauthorized drones are creating safety concerns and are slowing down the process. Heavy equipment operators may not see small drones flying nearby, which can disrupt their work. Please help us keep the beach safe by refraining from flying drones in the area.
    • Electric Vehicles, E-Bikes & Golf Carts: If you have an electric car, electric bike, or golf cart, and it was exposed to salt water via flooding, it needs to be moved away from your home by at least 50 feet. These vehicles may catch fire in the coming days. Avoid driving through saltwater. Saltwater intrusion can cause EVs to catch fire, which can not only destroy the vehicle, but also put your home or nearby structures in jeopardy.

    Message from Clearwater Gas System

    For all residential and commercial customers that reside in the beach communities, know that our field crews are working hard to secure all natural gas meters/service lines that were affected by storm surge due to Hurricane Helene. We are currently in recovery mode and are assessing the damage to our natural gas infrastructure and our main priority is to make sure that our systems are safe prior to service re-activation.

    Clearwater Gas will share updates over the next few weeks following the damage assessment.

    City Closures and Reopening Information

    Mercado Ribbon Cutting (2).png

    • The Mercado ribbon-cutting ceremony has been rescheduled from Monday, Oct. 7, to Friday, Oct. 11 at 4 p.m. at Cleveland Street and Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard in Clearwater. On-street parking is available south of Cleveland Street on Gulf-to-Bay Boulevard.
    • All Clearwater libraries are open, with exception of the Clearwater Beach Library. People can go there to use it for air conditioning, internet access, power and charging.
    • All recreation centers in Clearwater are open, with normal operating hours except the Clearwater Beach Recreation Center and Ross Norton Recreation Center, which is in use as a shelter.
    • All parks, trails and dog parks in Clearwater are open, except on Clearwater Beach, Sand Key and the trails leading to those places.
    • Parking fees have been suspended until further notice for downtown and Clearwater Beach.
    • Clearwater Harbor Marina Office in Coachman Park has resumed normal operations.
    • Clearwater Beach Marina, Beach Marina Harbormaster's Office and Fuel Dock are closed.
    • The Seminole Boat Ramps have been repaired and have reopened. The bathrooms remain closed at this time.
    • The splash pad at Coachman Park is out of order until further notice, as we wait for repair parts to arrive.
    • Pier 60 will remain closed due to storm damage.
    • The Clearwater Airpark has resumed normal operations.

     

    Business, Assistance & Unemployment Resources

    Business Assistance

    Businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene can now access disaster recovery assistance and emergency loan programs.

    • Contact Clearwater Economic Development for assistance in filling out the Business Damage Assessment Survey, and with questions about disaster loans and additional business resources at 727-562-4030.  We are here to help you!
    • Interested businesses can meet with consultants from Pinellas County’s Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) to get more information by calling (727) 453-7200 or emailing businesshelp@pinellas.gov.
    • If you need additional assistance with your business, please call the State’s private sector hotline at 850-815-4925, open daily, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or email ESF18@em.myflorida.com.

    Submit a Business Assistance Ticket through our Storm Damage Ticket System

    Business Damage Assessment Survey

    Florida Commerce and the State Emergency Response Team activated the Business Damage Assessment Survey in response to Hurricane Helene. Business owners can self-report physical and economic damage caused by Hurricane Helene. Survey responses will allow the state to expedite Hurricane Helene recovery efforts by gathering data and assessing the needs of impacted businesses.

    Businesses can complete the survey online by visiting https://floridajobs.org/floridadisaster.biz and selecting “Hurricane Helene” from the dropdown menu.

    One-Stop Business Resource Sites

    Oct. 1-9: FLA Commerce is partnering with Florida SBDCN and Career Source FL to bring One-Stop Business Resource Sites to businesses and employees impacted by Hurricane Helene in 17 counties. In-person help is available for Emergency Bridge Loans and Disaster Unemployment Assistance.

    Online resources: www.FloridaDisaster.biz

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    Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program

    FloridaCommerce activated the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program, making $15 million available for businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene. Florida small business owners in need of assistance are encouraged to visit  FloridaJobs.org/EBL to apply for the Florida Small Business Emergency Bridge Loan Program. Businesses in Pinellas County, including sole proprietors, are eligible to apply.

    The program provides short-term, zero-interest loans to small businesses that experienced economic injury or physical damage due to Hurricane Helene. Interested applicants can apply now through Nov. 24, 2024, or until all available funds are expended.

    Eligible small businesses may apply for loans of up to $50,000 through the program. Loans of up to $100,000 are available for agriculture and aquaculture small businesses. Loans approved through the Emergency Bridge Loan Program are intended to “bridge the gap” between the time a disaster impacts a business and when a business has secured longer term recovery funding, such as federally or commercially available loans, insurance claims, or other resources.

    Loans made under this program are short-term, zero-interest, personal loans using State of Florida funds. They are not grants and loans must be repaid by the approved applicant.

    FloridaCommerce administers the Emergency Bridge Loan Program alongside its fiscal administrator, Florida First Capital Finance Corporation.

    Visit FloridaJobs.org/EBL to learn more about the program, view the lending guidelines and required documentation, and complete an application by the November 24, 2024, deadline. Business owners who need further program information may call 833-832-4494 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Eastern Time.

    Unemployment Assistance

    FloridaCommerce announced that Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) is available to businesses and residents whose employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted as a direct result of Hurricane Helene and are not eligible for regular state or federal Reemployment Assistance benefits. Eligible Floridians whose employment or self-employment was lost or interrupted as a direct result of Hurricane Helene are encouraged to submit a claim at FloridaJobs.org.

    Additional Disaster Loans & Business Assistance

    Businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene can now access disaster recovery assistance and emergency loan programs.

    Business Continuity and Disaster Preparedness - SBDC Tampa Bay

    Florida SBDC Network, provides short-term, interest-free working capital loans intended to help impacted businesses “bridge the gap” between the time a major catastrophe hits and when a business has secured long-term recovery resources, such as insurance claims or federal assistance. Eligible businesses with two to 100 employees may apply for loans up to $50,000 for 90 or 180-day terms. Visit www.FloridaDisasterLoan.org for full details.

    U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Business Physical Disaster Loans

    Businesses and most private non-profit organizations located in a declared disaster area that incurred damage during a disaster may apply for a low-interest loan to help replace or restore damaged property if federal assistance is activated. SBA makes physical disaster loans of up to $2 million to qualified businesses and most private non-profit organizations. Visit www.SBA.gov for full details.

    Loans to businesses to repair or replace disaster-damaged property owned by the business, including real estate, inventories, supplies, machinery and equipment. Businesses of any size are eligible. Private, non-profit organizations such as charities, churches, private universities, etc., are also eligible.

    To find active disaster declarations and associated assistance, please visit www.SBA.gov.

    U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL)

    If federal assistance is activated and you are in a declared disaster area, have suffered substantial economic injury regardless of physical damage, and you are a small business, small agricultural cooperative, or private nonprofit organizations, you may qualify for an EIDL. EIDLs provide working capital to help businesses survive until normal operations resume after a disaster. SBA can provide up to a maximum of $2 million to help meet financial obligations and operating expenses. A business may qualify for both an EIDL and a physical disaster loan, not to exceed the maximum of $2 million. Visit www.SBA.gov for full details.

    Working capital loans to help small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small businesses engaged in aquaculture, and most private, non-profit organizations of all sizes meet their ordinary and necessary financial obligations that cannot be met as a direct result of the disaster. These loans are intended to assist through the disaster recovery period.

    To find active disaster declarations and associated assistance, please visit www.SBA.gov.

    Businesses with sand impacts can visit disaster.pinellas.gov for up-to-date removal information.

    Volunteer Opportunities and Donations

    Donations Being Accepted

    Collection sites around Pinellas County are accepting donations for those impacted by Hurricane Helene. These locations are for donation drop-offs only, unless otherwise specified by the location’s agency.
    The locations in Clearwater are:
    • Habitat for Humanity Admin, 14010 Roosevelt Blvd, Suite 704, Clearwater, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
    • North Greenwood Recreation Center, 900 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Clearwater, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-9 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
    Items not accepted used clothing, bottled water, furniture, appliances and other large items.
    Items accepted:
    • Canned or non-perishable food
    • Sports drinks
    • Personal care items
    • Disposable baby diapers
    • Baby food/ formula
    • Can openers (manual)
    • Plastic ware
    • Paper products
    • Disposable adult diapers
    • Cleaning supplies, including mops and brooms
    • Dust masks
    • Work gloves, Heavy rubber kitchen gloves and non-sterile gloves
    • Flashlights and fresh batteries
    • Hand tools
    Individuals interested in volunteering can sign up via Volunteer Connect at https://www.volunteerflorida.org/volunteerconnect/, a statewide online portal to match volunteers with organizations that are looking for help.

     

    Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber

    Sign up to volunteer with the Tampa Bay Beaches Chamber.

    Donate Monetarily

    Volunteer Connect

    Individuals interested in volunteering can sign up via Volunteer Connect athttps://www.volunteerflorida.org/volunteerconnect/, a statewide online portal to match volunteers with organizations that are looking for help.

     

    Water and Wastewater Updates

    Potable Water

    • The city's drinking water system is safe and operating properly. It is safe to drink and bathe in.

    Reclaimed Water Update

    • The reclaimed water system has been turned back on for all residents. You do not need to conserve reclaimed water.

    Water Conservation Updates

    • Continue to conserve water potable post-storm as best you can at this time to help relieve stress on the wastewater system, as infrastructure repairs and recovery efforts are taking some time.

    Floodwater

    • The Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County (DOH-Pinellas) urges residents to be aware of the health risks associated with flooding and other issues. Skin contact with flood waters does not, by itself, pose a serious health risk. However, health hazards are a concern when waters are or become contaminated with bacteria or contain dangerous debris.

    Additional Information and Resources

    Mosquitoes: West Nile Virus Detected in Pinellas County

    Pinellas County Mosquito Control has seen increased transmission of mosquito-borne West Nile Virus through its sentinel chicken illness detection program and is urging residents to protect themselves and their loved ones from mosquitoes and prevent mosquito breeding.

    Florida Department of Health in Pinellas County has issued a Mosquito-Borne Illness Advisory based on the spike in West Nile Virus. Some neighboring counties have also detected the virus through their sentinel chicken programs. And since we're forecast to get a lot of rain this weekend, it's important for residents to dump standing water after it accumulates to take away mosquito breeding grounds.

    The best way for residents to prevent mosquito bites is to follow the 3 Ds:

    • Dress light-colored, long-sleeved clothing with closed toed shoes.
    • Defend using an insect repellent with an CDC recommended ingredient such as DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus.
    • Dump or cover standing water, which can include debris from recent storm events holding water.

    Because Pinellas County Mosquito Control's priority is to treat species that threaten public health, there may be an increase in the population of Aedes taeniorhynchus. The black saltmarsh mosquito is an aggressive biter that breeds in tidal habitats and pockets of water left in surge impacted areas. This species is considered a nuisance and not a major concern with disease transmission.

    Other Mosquito-Safety Reminders

    • Eliminate all standing or still water on your property that could be breeding ground for mosquitoes.
    • Be on the lookout for puddles in garages, covered pool decks and porches that may have taken on surging stormwater. This water can be removed with a push broom, floor squeegee or a shop vac. 
    • Any items filled with floodwater should be drained, turned over, and emptied or dried out.
    • Clean out rain gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters are one of the most overlooked breeding sites for mosquitoes around homes.
    • Empty and turn over containers holding water, such as cans, jars, drums, bottles, flower pots, buckets, children's toys, wheelbarrows, garbage can lids, small boats or canoes, and old appliances.
    • Tires can breed thousands of mosquitoes. Drain or get rid of old tires by recycling them.
    • Change the water and clean out pet dishes and bird baths. Flush out bromeliad plants.

    Clearwater Gas

    For all residential and commercial customers that reside in the beach communities, know that our field crews are working hard to secure all natural gas meters/service lines that were affected by storm surge due to Hurricane Helene. We are currently in recovery mode and are assessing the damage to our natural gas infrastructure and our main priority is to make sure that our systems are safe prior to service re-activation.

    Clearwater Gas will share updates over the next few weeks following the damage assessment.

    Update on Election Services Following Hurricane Helene

    Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections 

    • All three of Pinellas County Supervisor of Elections offices are fully operational with normal business hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. 

    Mail Ballots

    • Mail ballots will be sent out on Oct. 1, 2024, to ensure that all eligible voters who requested a ballot will have it before the legally mandated deadline.
    • If you are in an area that is currently not receiving mail delivery, please see the United States Post Office Service Alerts for further details.  
    • If you need to request a mail ballot, complete this online form by 5 p.m. on October 24.

    Early Voting Sites and Secure Ballot Return Locations

    • We are currently assessing the status of all early voting sites and secure ballot return locations. Updates on their availability and any necessary adjustments will be provided as soon as possible.

    Polling Places

    • Our teams are actively reaching out to polling places and conducting damage assessments throughout the county. Preliminary evaluations indicate that up to 40 polling locations may have sustained significant damage and could require relocation. We are diligently working to identify suitable alternative sites and will keep you informed of any changes.

    Poll Worker Training

    • We are contacting all poll workers to update them on the situation. Necessary training classes are being rescheduled to ensure that our team is fully prepared to facilitate a smooth election process. For questions call 727-464-6110.

    Stay Informed

    • Your patience and understanding are greatly appreciated as we navigate these challenges. The latest storm related updates will be posted on votepinellas.gov, or call 727-464- VOTE (8683).

    Lost Pets

    • If you have lost or found a pet, visit pinellas.gov/lost-and-found.
    • The Pinellas County Animal Services shelter is closed Friday, Sept. 27 and anticipates opening Saturday morning. At that time, you can visit the Pinellas County Animal Services’ Found Center to check for your lost pet or to drop off a found pet at 12450 Ulmerton Road, Largo.
    • Found Center hours are Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. You can check other local animal shelters as well.
    • If you find a lost pet, you may be able to take it to Tampa Bay Vet Specialists Emergency Center, 1601 S. Belcher Road, Largo. Call first: (727) 531-5752.

    City Closures

    • All Clearwater libraries are open, with exception of the Clearwater Beach Library. People can go there to use it for air conditioning, internet access, power and charging.
    • All recreation centers in Clearwater are open, with normal operating hours except the Clearwater Beach Recreation Center and Ross Norton Recreation Center, which is in use as a shelter.
    • All parks, trails and dog parks in Clearwater are open, except on Clearwater Beach, Sand Key and the trails leading to those places.

    • Parking fees have been suspended until further notice for downtown and Clearwater Beach. 

    • Clearwater Harbor Marina Office in Coachman Park has resumed normal operations.
    • Clearwater Beach Marina, Beach Marina Harbormaster's Office and Fuel Dock are closed.
    • Seminole Boat Ramp is closed.
    • The splash pad at Coachman Park is out of order until further notice, as we wait for repair parts to arrive.
    • Pier 60 will remain closed due to storm damage.
    • The Clearwater Airpark has resumed normal operations.
    • Courtney Campbell Causeway has reopened in both directions.

     

    Price-Gouging

    Avoid becoming a victim of post-storm scams! Residents are protected by the state’s price gouging law. Residents who suspect price gouging can report it by calling the Pinellas County Consumer Protection at (727) 464-6200 or online at www.pinellas.gov/consumer and are also encouraged to report it to the Attorney General’s hotline at 1-866-9-NO-SCAM.
    Effective only during a declared state of emergency, the price gouging law bans unconscionable prohibits sharp increases in the price of essential commodities, such as food, water, shelter, ice, gasoline, lumber and equipment that is needed as a direct result of an official declared emergency. Violators are subject to civil penalties of $1,000 per violation, up to a total of $25,000 for multiple violations committed in a single 24-hour period.
    Also, be wary of solicitations for charitable contributions on behalf of Hurricane Helene. All charities soliciting within Florida – excluding religious, educational, political and governmental agencies entities – are required to register and file financial information with the with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. To check whether a charitable organization is properly registered, visit Check-A-Charity, a resource that provides the information reported to the department.

    State of Emergency Extended

    The Clearwater City Council announced an emergency proclamation for the city of Clearwater.

    The state of emergency has been extended.(PDF, 165KB)

     The state of Florida and Pinellas County also declared a state of emergency.

    Hotel Accommodations

    You can view available hotels that are in non-evacuation zones in the area athttps://myclearwater.info/hotelsevaczone.

    How to Identify a FEMA Inspector

    If you applied for disaster assistance, a FEMA inspector may contact you to set up an in- person home inspection. It is important to respond when they try to contact you. Here are ways to identify if a home inspector is a FEMA inspector.

    All FEMA personnel will display official identification. Always ask the inspector to show you their official badge, which shows their name and photo. Contract inspectors for FEMA may also carry a badge issued by their employer. It, too, will show their name, photo and possibly, an ID number. To learn more, visit https://myclearwater.info/identifyfema 

     

     

    Storm Resources

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