Sarasota County Issues Evacuation Orders as Storm Approaches
Sarasota County has officially issued evacuation orders for residents in certain areas in preparation for an incoming storm. The evacuation applies to residents in Level A zones, manufactured home communities, and those in the Forked Creek neighborhood of Englewood, as well as the Curry Creek and Hatchett Creek areas in Venice.
Evacuation zone maps are available online at scgov.net/beprepared.
Officials advise residents to prepare a checklist before heading to evacuation centers. “All centers are pet-friendly,” the county stated, “but pet owners must bring necessary supplies, including a crate. Evacuation centers do not provide chairs, bedding, cots, blankets, or pet supplies.”
Shelters in Sarasota County will open at noon on Wednesday and include the following locations:
- Atwater Elementary School, 4701 Huntsville Ave., North Port
- Booker High School, 3201 N. Orange Ave., Sarasota
- Brookside Middle School, 3636 South Shade Ave., Sarasota
- Fruitville Elementary School, 601 N. Honore Ave., Sarasota
- Gulf Gate Elementary School, 6500 S. Lockwood Ridge Road, Sarasota
- Heron Creek Middle School, 6501 W. Price Blvd., North Port
- North Port High School, 6400 W. Price Blvd., North Port
- Phillippi Shores Elementary, 4747 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota
- Riverview High School, 1 Ram Way, Sarasota
- Southside Elementary School, 1901 Webber Street, Sarasota
- Taylor Ranch Elementary, 2500 Taylor Ranch Trail, Venice
- Woodland Middle School, 2700 Panacea Blvd., North Port
Sarasota County Schools Superintendent Terry Connor emphasized the district’s preparedness: “We are ready to serve our community. Our schools and personnel are coordinating with the county to provide shelter.” He added that updates would be shared with staff and families as the storm progresses.
Sarasota County Schools will be closed from Wednesday through Friday, while Charlotte County Schools will close on Thursday and Friday. The School District of DeSoto County will close on Friday as well.
Charlotte County has also announced two shelters for residents, both opening at 1 p.m. on Wednesday:
- Kingsway Elementary, 23300 Quasar Blvd., Port Charlotte
- Harold Avenue Regional Park, 23400 Harold Ave., Port Charlotte
Charlotte County Schools confirmed their closure in coordination with local emergency management officials. “This decision reflects our commitment to ensuring the safety of our community,” the district stated.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local news outlets and county websites for further updates as the situation evolves.