Hurricane Matthew: 7 Emergency Shelters Open in Hillsborough County

TAMPA, FL — Seven shelters opened Thursday afternoon for residents of Hillsborough County and evacuees from elsewhere in Florida. In the Tampa Bay area and along most of the west coast, a tropical storm watch is in place.

Hurricane Matthew could deliver "potentially disastrous impacts for Florida" after the deadly storm finishes a trek through the Bahamas, according to the National Hurricane Center. The storm was holding strong as a Category 4 with 140 mph maximum sustained winds as of 5 p.m. Thursday. For updates on the storm's path and potential impacts, sign up for Patch news alerts.

Individuals staying in shelters must bring their own bedding, such as blankets,pillows, cots, mats, and sleeping bags, according to a statement by Hillsborough County. Food, snacks, and water will beprovided.

The shelters are at:

• Burnett Middle School, 1010 N. Kingsway Road in Seffner (dogs and cats allowed)
• Strawberry Crest High School 4691 Gallagher Road in Dover
• Tomlin Middle School, 501 N. Wilson St. in Plant City
• Pizzo Elementary School, 11701 Bull Run Road in Tampa
• Brandon High School, 1101 Victoria St. in Brandon
• Riverview High School, 11311 Boyette Road in Riverview (special medical needs and general population)
• Summerfield Crossings Elementary, 11050 Fair Meadows Drive in Riverview

Policy on Pets

Only the shelter at Burnett Middle School will be able to accept dogs and cats.

Owners must bring with them:

• proof of current license and vaccination
• an appropriate pet crate
• all food, bowls, medications, and other items needed by the pet

For more information, call the Hillsborough County Customer Service Center at 813-272-5900. For storm safety and preparation tips, go toHCFLGov.net/StaySafe.

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