Honeyville Shelter Opens, Mandatory Evacuations in Effect for Gulf County
As Hurricane Helene approaches, Gulf County officials are taking emergency measures to ensure public safety. At 8:00 AM (EST) today, the Honeyville Community Center opened as a “Last Resort” shelter for the general population. This shelter offers minimal accommodations and support, and those who choose to stay must bring their own water, food, bedding, chairs, and phone chargers. Pets are not allowed, and parents are encouraged to bring activities for their children. The shelter will operate for 72 hours and will close on Saturday, September 28, 2024.
Additionally, in an effort to protect infrastructure, county workers will shut off water and sewer utilities on Cape San Blas Road from the Stump Hole (rocks) north as of 8:00 AM on Thursday, September 26. This preemptive shutdown will reduce the repair time in the event of damage to the utility infrastructure caused by the storm.
Mandatory Evacuations in Place
Mandatory evacuations have been issued for the following areas:
- Highland View
- WindMark Beach
- St. Joe Beach
- Beacon Hill to the county line
In the City of Port St. Joe, mandatory evacuations are in effect for all residents from St. Joseph Bay to North Garrison Avenue. All residents in the affected areas must evacuate immediately.
A flash flood warning has also been issued for Gulf County today, further emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Residents are urged to follow evacuation orders, seek safe shelter, and stay updated on further instructions as Hurricane Helene makes landfall.
