This is an update from Robin Miller President of The Tampa Bay Beach Chamber.

It is with a heavy heart that I send today's STORM UPDATE.  We know that from Passagrille to Clearwater Beach the impacts are staggering.  We also know the business community is anxious to get out and assess the damages. Please be patient. 

Access to barrier islands remains CLOSED, until further notice

From SHERIFF:
Gulf Boulevard looks like a war zone. It's not passable/dangerous.  There is empathy that you want to get there. At this time it is not safe.   They are working as quickly as possible.
Massive debris all over the islands.

Pinellas County 10:30 Briefing:

• If you do not have to go anywhere, they ask you to stay home
• There is a lot of debris, downed lines, and other damages
• PIE Airport will open today
• All parks are closed
• 5 Fatalities (2 Treasure Island 2 Indian Rocks 1 Dunedin)
• 132 Pump Stations not operable
• Experiencing low press in South County
• Conserve water is key to helping restore systems quickly
• About 40% of customers experience power outages, Duke is responding as quickly as possible

If you need accommodations:  Hurricane Helene Updates and Hotel Availability | Visit St Petersburg Clearwater Florida (visitstpeteclearwater.com)

HOTELS:   Could you please let Visit St. Pete Clearwater know the status (when you are able) of your availability at PR@visitspc.com 
 
Additionally, the Business Damage Assessment Survey is now available
https://floridadisaster.biz/Respond/BusinessDamageAssessmentsSurvey