Hernando County officials have declared a local state of emergency and issued a voluntary evacuation order as Hurricane Michael approaches the Gulf of Mexico.

A Tropical Storm Watch and Storm Surge Watch are in effect for the Tampa Bay area, including Hernando County. That means tropical storm conditions and possible life-threatening flooding from rising water is possible within 48 hours.

County officials say storm surge is predicted to be 4 to 6 feet above normal levels and are asking coastal residents to be prepared.

“Coastal residents should expect to see ponding of water on roadways, especially near high tides,” officials said in a news release. “Access to evacuation routes throughout coastal areas may be limited. Damage to unanchored mobile homes, porches and carports is possible.”

County officials met on Monday and decided to issue a voluntary evacuation order for coastal zone levels A and B. The order begins Tuesday at 8 a.m. Residents can find their zone on the Hernando County website.

“Individuals in low-lying areas and those that feel unsafe in their location should begin making preparations to seek higher ground,” officials said. “It is extremely important for all residents to closely monitor this storm and potential impacts over the next few days and be prepared to act immediately.”

The county has also opened two sandbag locations:

  • Anderson Snow Park in Spring Hill: 1360 Anderson Snow Rd. (Open 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday and Tuesday)
  • Linda Pederson Park near Hernando Beach: 6300 Shoal Line Blvd. (Open 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday)

A shelter at The Enrichment Center located at 800 John Gary Grubbs Blvd. in Brooksville will also open at noon on Tuesday. County officials say it will house special needs guests and the general population. It will also be pet-friendly. Additional shelters may open at a later time.

Hernando Schools announced Monday that all schools and district offices will be open Tuesday, but all after school events are canceled, with the exception of the Boys and Girls Club and the YMCA.