Hernando County Emergency Management continues to monitor Tropical Storm Idalia. 

Hernando County Emergency Management Announces Voluntary Evacuations for Tropical Storm Idalia

Evacuation Orders and Public Shelter Openings

Voluntary Evacuations have been issued for all areas west of US 19, which includes evacuation zones A, B, and C.  All residents living in coastal and low-lying areas, as well as manufactured homes county-wide, are included. Residents are advised to seek safe shelter with family or friends who reside in a safe structure. If this is not a possibility, a public shelter will open at 12 p.m. Monday, August 28, 2023, at the below addresses. 

West Hernando Middle School – Special Needs at 14325 Ken Austin Pkwy., Brooksville, FL 34614

***If you need the Special Needs Shelter and have a pet, transportation from either your house or shelter location for your pet is done through Animal Control with the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office.

Please call the Hernando County Public Information Center (PIC) at 352-754-4083 to arrange pick up. The PIC opens at 8 a.m. on Monday, August 28, 2023.***

D. S. Parrott Middle School – General Population and Pet-Friendly at 19220 Youth Dr., Brooksville, FL 34601

Nature Coast Technical High School – General Population at 4057 California St., Brooksville, FL 34604

Hernando High School – General Population, 111 Ernie Chatman Run, Brooksville, FL 34601

Pet-Friendly Shelter Tips

Hernando County Animal Services Tips for Pet-Friendly Sheltering during declared emergencies. Our citizens and their animals are housed in separate sections of the designated shelter(s). Designated shelters are typically Hernando County Schools. Animals will be housed in crates in a different location than where the general population is located. If you need to seek shelter with your pet during a declared emergency the following list will help you be prepared:

• Bring your own appropriately sized crate (County resources are limited)
• Bring all your dogs required medications
• Bring several days’ worth of your animals’ food
• Ensure your dog is current on all vaccinations
• Bring your own leash and collar. Ensure your dog is trained to walk on a leash
• Bring any toys and/or bedding that will make your animal comfortable.
• If your animal is fearful or shy, bring sheets to cover the crate while still allowing airflow.
• If you bring a crate place something unique on it to distinguish it from others.
• Understand that your animal will not be housed in the same section as you; however, you will have access to your animal.
• Do not buy different snacks or food for the animal that they are not accustomed to, this will often cause the animals to have digestive issues; particularly when they are already stressed.
• If your animal has any propensity to bite animals or humans, please obtain and utilize a muzzle.
• Bring spray cleaner, paper towels, etc., to be able to clean your animal’s crate.