Barrier islands to remain closed; potable water to be turned off for emergency repairs in communities south of John’s Pass

Due to extensive damage from Hurricane Helene, Pinellas County Utilities is restricting potable water service on the southern barrier islands from John’s Pass to Fort De Soto Park. This specifically affects St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island and Tierra Verde customers.

Potable water service to these communities will be shut off starting at 8 p.m. today, Friday, Sept. 27, because the system is running out of water. Residents and businesses will be without potable water until repairs are made.

These communities remain under the County’s evacuation order, but the order has been rescinded for all mobile homes and other Zone A residents. All of the barrier islands remain under the evacuation order at this time.

Special bus transportation will be available starting at 6 p.m. tonight to transport residents off the barrier islands. Details can be found on this website.

The lack of water service extends to fire lines, meaning fire hydrants will not function. Two tankers will be stationed for emergency fire response. Water pressure will drop tonight after 8 p.m. and any remaining water must be boiled before use. A boil water notice will be issued at that time.

The Gulf Beach Water Booster Station in St. Pete Beach is damaged due to flooding and storm surge from Hurricane Helene. Pinellas County has deployed every possible resource to complete repairs as soon as possible. Hundreds of pipes are damaged, buried in sand, and require excavation to locate and repair. 

Many homes and businesses have experienced broken private water lines, which may prevent restoration even when the system is back online. Residents who have not evacuated should heed evacuation warnings for their safety now due to the health and safety risks of being without potable water. 

Updates will be posted on disaster.pinellas.gov.