Zones A and B start evacuating

Update: To look up your evacuation zone online, visit myescambia.com/knowyourzone.

Escambia County has issued an evacuation order for evacuation Zones A and B, effective at noon today, Thursday, Oct. 8. This area includes Perdido Key, Innerarity Point, Pensacola Beach and other low-lying areas. The evacuation order also includes anyone living in a mobile home or a low-lying area, regardless of your evacuation zone. Please take this notice seriously.

Shelter Location Information

• The Pensacola Bay Center, located at 201 E. Gregory St., will open at 3 p.m. today, Thursday, Oct. 8, as a general population shelter.
• The Marie K. Young-Wedgewood Community Center, located at 6405 Wagner Road, will open at 3 p.m. today, Thursday, Oct. 8, as a special needs shelter.

Transportation

• Escambia County Area Transit will be providing free transportation to the shelters. Those seeking transportation through ECAT should call the Citizen Information Line at 850-471-6600.
• Those transporting pets must ensure pets are in a carrier.

Pensacola Bay Center Shelter Information

• This shelter is pet-friendly (please bring vaccination documents).
• Please note that the Bay Center ice is still up, so the room may be cold.
• Bring a jacket, blanket and pillow.
• Cots will not be provided.
• Due to space limitations, do not bring cots or air mattresses.
• The Red Cross will provide snacks and water only. Bring any additional food needed for you and your family.
• Click here for more information about what to bring to a shelter.

Marie K. Young-Wedgewood Community Center Shelter Information

• Anyone staying at this shelter must register in advance through the Special Needs Shelter Registry using this link.
• After registration is completed, you will be contacted by Emergency Management, DOH-Escambia, or both to determine your eligibility and ensure the shelter can meet your individual needs.
• For more information on your local shelter status, please visit FloridaDisaster.org.
• If you are a caregiver, you should accompany the special needs client. Bring enough items to last at least five days for both you and the client.
• If you are eligible for a special needs shelter, your kit should include:
  • List of medications and dosage
  • A 30-day supply of medications
  • Vital medical equipment for those who may be electrically or oxygen dependent
  • Backup energy sources for essential medical equipment
  • Any special dietary needs or food
  • Personal information including photo ID, insurance card, list of emergency contacts, and your primary care provider’s contact information

Evacuation Information

• Zone A and B includes Perdido Key, Innerarity Point, Pensacola Beach and other low-lying areas.
• To look up your evacuation zone online, visit myescambia.com/knowyourzone.
• Keep in mind it is always easier to go tens of miles, not hundreds. Consider going to a friend or relative’s home or a hotel.
• Evacuation routes can be viewed here.
• For a map of evacuation routes and zones, click here.
• You must understand that when sustained wind speeds reach 39 mph or storm surge covers roadways, law enforcement, emergency medical services and fire departments may not be able to come to your aid.
• If you live in an evacuation zone, be sure to check on neighbors, especially the elderly and those with special needs.
• The Escambia County Citizen Information Line is now open. Residents with questions may call 850-471-6600.

Residents are encouraged to remain weather aware and continue monitoring the forecast for updates. Ensure you have multiple ways to receive warnings and know your safe place ahead of time.

For more information, monitor the local media and legitimate online and social media sources like Escambia County Emergency Managementand US National Weather Service Mobile.

More information on what to do before, during and after a storm is available online at MyEscambia.com/BeReady. For the latest news and updates on emergencies impacting the community, like Escambia County Emergency Management on Facebook and follow @EscambiaBeReady on Instagram.