September 25, 2024 4:29 PM
Hurricane Helene Storm Advisory 2
A Tropical Storm Warning is now in effect for St. Lucie County and the City of Fort Pierce as Hurricane Helene is expected to intensify over the next 24-36 hours. The storm is forecast to accelerate through the eastern Gulf of Mexico, heading toward the Apalachee Bay Area. Helene will bring strong winds, heavy rain, and isolated tornado threats. Hazardous marine and surf conditions are expected to develop today, lasting through early Friday morning.
Potential Impacts for the City of Fort Pierce:
• Primary Hazards: Heavy rain and strong winds in fast-moving squalls, especially overnight Wednesday and into Thursday.
• Rainfall: 1 to 3 inches of rain, with localized areas receiving up to 4 to 6 inches, potentially causing localized flooding.
• Winds: Sustained winds of 20-30 mph, with gusts up to 40-50 mph, starting around 10:00 AM Thursday.
• Coastal Conditions: Hazardous marine and surf conditions beginning today and lasting through Friday morning.
Sand Distribution:
The City of Fort Pierce is offering self-serve sandbag stations for residents at the following locations:
• Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Dreamland Park (S. 25th St.)
• Pioneer Park (Ave M and N. 29th St.)
• Little Jim Bait & Tackle (601 N. Causeway)
• Jaycee Park (South Hutchinson Island)
Residents are asked to bring their own bags and shovels. Parks are open from dawn to dusk daily.
Solid Waste Collection:
The Solid Waste Division will maintain its regular schedule, weather permitting. However, if sustained winds reach 40 MPH, trucks will return to the Public Works facility. Residents are advised to hold off on cutting vegetation or starting large projects until after the storm has passed. Please refrain from placing additional debris at the curb, as it may block stormwater drainage.
Streets and Drainage:
The Streets and Drainage Division is actively working to clear stormwater systems to ensure full capacity during the storm.
Communication:
The City of Fort Pierce is dedicated to keeping residents informed. Updates will be shared on the city's website, social media, and Fort Pierce TV Channel 27. Sign up for St. Lucie County's Alert St. Lucie program to receive emergency notifications via phone, email, or text at www.stlucieco.gov/Alert.
Power Outages:
Report power outages to the Fort Pierce Utilities Authority (FPUA) online at https://fpua.com/report-an-outage/ or call (772) 466-7703.
St. Lucie County Schools:
St. Lucie Public Schools will be closed on Thursday, September 26, 2024, due to Hurricane Helene. All after-school activities are canceled for today and tomorrow. The College Fair at the Fenn Center scheduled for this evening has been postponed. After-school childcare programs will remain open today but will be closed tomorrow. Stay updated by visiting the SLPS website or social media. Schools are expected to resume normal operations on Friday, September 27, 2024.
City Facilities:
City Hall and all City of Fort Pierce facilities will be closed on Thursday, September 26, 2024. Regular operations are expected to resume on Friday, September 27, 2024.