If you live in Hillsborough County Evacuation Zones, one question looms large during hurricane season: “Am I in an evacuation zone?”
This isn’t something you want to leave until the last minute. Being prepared can make all the difference between staying safe or being caught off guard. Hillsborough County has five main evacuation zones, each with different levels of risk. And with hurricanes like Milton rapidly intensifying, it’s crucial to know which zone you’re in and what that means for you.
So, what are these zones? How can you find out if you’re in one? And what should you do if an evacuation is ordered?
Let’s break it down.
What Are Hillsborough County Evacuation Zones?
Hillsborough County is divided into five evacuation zones: A, B, C, D, and E.
Each zone represents a different level of risk based on the area’s vulnerability to storm surges and flooding. The closer you are to the coast or low-lying areas, the more likely you are to be in a high-risk zone. The zones are color-coded on maps to make it easy for residents to identify their risk levels.
- Zone A: Highest risk. Typically the first to be evacuated when a storm approaches. This zone includes areas along the coastline and rivers.
- Zone B: Moderate to high risk. Often evacuated after Zone A. Includes areas further inland but still susceptible to flooding.
- Zone C: Moderate risk. Evacuations here are based on the storm’s intensity.
- Zone D: Lower risk. Evacuations are less common but possible for stronger storms.
- Zone E: Lowest risk but still within the evacuation range for very strong hurricanes.
The keyword here is the storm surge—the abnormal rise in sea level that occurs during a hurricane. Zones closer to the water are more vulnerable to this dangerous surge, which can lead to life-threatening floods.
How to Find Your Hillsborough County Evacuation Zones
Not sure which zone you’re in? You can check your evacuation zone easily online. Hillsborough County has made it simple with a zone lookup tool on its official website. Just plug in your address, and it’ll tell you exactly what zone you’re in.
You can also view evacuation maps at Hillsborough County’s Emergency Management site. Keep in mind that these zones are updated regularly to reflect changing risk levels.
Why Knowing Your Zone Matters
Understanding your Hillsborough County Evacuation Zones isn’t just about convenience; it’s about safety. Hurricanes are unpredictable, and evacuations are ordered based on the storm’s potential to cause damage. If you’re in a high-risk zone and don’t evacuate when told, you could face extreme conditions, from high winds to dangerous floods.
Take Hurricane Milton as an example. It’s a Category 5 hurricane, and zones A and B are already under mandatory evacuation. Staying in these areas during a storm like this could put you in severe danger. And the truth is, no one can predict the exact path of a hurricane. Even if it shifts slightly, it could drastically change who gets hit the hardest.
What to Do If You’re in a Hillsborough County Evacuation Zones
So, the county has ordered an evacuation for your zone. What now?
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Plan your route: Don’t wait until the last minute. Know where you’re going—whether it’s to a friend’s house, a shelter, or a hotel outside the evacuation area.
- Pack the essentials: Bring important documents (IDs, insurance papers), medications, clothes, and non-perishable food. If you have pets, don’t forget supplies for them too.
- Secure your home: Close shutters, bring outdoor furniture inside and unplug electrical appliances.
- Fuel up: Gas stations get busy fast. Fill your tank as soon as you hear an evacuation might be ordered.
- Stay informed: Keep listening to updates from local authorities. If the situation worsens, they may expand the evacuation zones.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What if I’m not in an evacuation zone?
Even if you’re not in a designated zone, you should still take precautions. High winds and heavy rain can affect areas far from the coastline. If you feel unsafe or live in a mobile home, consider evacuating regardless.
2. Can I go to any shelter?
No. Not all shelters are equipped to handle everyone. Check which shelters are open during the storm and make sure they can accommodate any specific needs you might have (like pets or medical requirements).
3. How will I know if my zone has been evacuated?
The county will issue evacuation orders via local news, social media, and emergency alerts. Make sure your phone is set to receive emergency notifications.
4. How soon should I evacuate?
As soon as the order is issued. Leaving early helps you avoid traffic, and some areas may become impassable if you wait too long.
5. What happens if I don’t evacuate?
If you’re in a mandatory evacuation zone and stay behind, you risk getting stuck in dangerous conditions. Emergency responders may not be able to reach you if the storm is severe.
Common Misconceptions
It’s easy to think, “I’ve ridden out hurricanes before; I’ll be fine.” But each storm is different, and just because you got lucky last time doesn’t mean you will again. Hurricane Katrina taught us the deadly cost of underestimating the power of a storm surge.
Another misconception is that if you’re inland, you’re safe. While storm surge mainly affects coastal areas, flooding and wind damage can occur miles inland, making evacuation crucial even for those in lower-risk zones.
The Role of Hurricane Milton
Tracking Hurricane Milton serves as a reminder of how quickly conditions can change. A Category 5 storm like Milton can cause widespread devastation, even in areas not typically thought to be high-risk.
This is why Hillsborough County Evacuation Zones exist—so you can prepare and act before it’s too late. Milton has already triggered mandatory evacuations in zones A and B, and officials are urging residents to take action now.
Final Thoughts
Knowing your Hillsborough County evacuation zone is essential for staying safe during hurricane season. Don’t wait until the last minute to figure it out. With tools available online, it’s easier than ever to prepare and make informed decisions before a storm hits.
Stay safe, stay informed, and when in doubt—evacuate.
