Tampa Free Press Hurricane Updates HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. - As Hurricane Milton approaches the West Coast of Florida, Hillsborough County Water
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. – As Hurricane Milton approaches the West Coast of Florida, Hillsborough County Water Resources is actively monitoring the region’s water and wastewater systems to maintain service integrity. However, due to potential damage from strong winds or storm surge, residents may experience service disruptions.
Drinking Water System:
There are no immediate plans to shut down the drinking water system ahead of Hurricane Milton. In the event of an outage, a mandatory Precautionary Boil Water Notice will be required once water service is restored, remaining in effect for at least 48 hours.
Wastewater System:
To protect wastewater systems, pump stations located in Evacuation Zones A and B will be turned off when flooding becomes a threat due to heavy rain and storm surge. Residents are urged to minimize wastewater-producing activities such as bathing, washing clothes and dishes, and flushing toilets to help mitigate system impacts.
Water Preparation Tips:
- Store Emergency Drinking Water:
- Aim for at least one gallon of water per person per day for a minimum of seven days. Don’t forget to account for pets.
- Use clean, food-grade containers like pitchers, pots, and pans for storage. If reusing containers, ensure they are cleaned and sanitized.
- Prepare Extra Water for Non-Drinking Uses:
- Fill bathtubs, sinks, and other large containers with water to use for flushing toilets and cleaning, should water service be disrupted.
- Purify Drinking Water if Necessary:
- Boil water for at least one minute to kill most pathogens.
- For extra purification, add 1/8 teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water, stir, and let sit for 30 minutes before use.
- Water purification tablets are another option for quick and easy purification.
- Protect Your Water Supply:
- If you rely on a well, consider installing a hand pump or alternative access in case of power loss. Ensure any potential contaminants, such as fuel or chemicals, are securely stored away from flood-prone areas.
For any questions, residents can call Water Resources Customer Services at (813) 307-1000 or visit HCFL.gov.
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