Hillsborough County Makes Sandbags Available as Hurricane Matthew Approaches

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, FL — As Hurricane Matthew makes its approach toward Florida, Hillsborough County has announced the opening of three locations where residents can get sandbags.

As of the National Hurricane Center’s 2 p.m. Oct. 5 report, Matthew was packing maximum sustained winds of 120 mph. While Matthew isn’t anticipated to reach Hillsborough County directly, tropical storm conditions are possible in the region Thursday and Friday. The county is not, however, under a tropical storm or hurricane watch.

The county is also encouraging residents to register for the HCFL Alert system. This system enables residents to receive emergency alerts via email, phone or text. To sign up, just visit the county’s website.

See also: Hurricane Matthew Strengthens on Path Toward Florida

Hillsborough County’s sandbag locations will be open until 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 5, and from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday. The locations are as follows:

• West Service Unit, 9805 Sheldon Road, Tampa
• South Service Unit, 8718 Old Big Bend Road, Gibsonton
• East Service Unit, 4702 Sydney Road, Plant City

The county will make materials available for residents to make their own sandbags. Each resident must sign their name and provide a home address to receive up to 25 sandbags.

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