Pasco County Seal

Residents of Wesley Chapel should be on high-alert as the projected path for Tropical Storm Debby has changed (again), and could possibly move onshore somewhere in the Tampa Bay area. As a result, Pasco County has issued a “Local State of Emergency.”

According to a Pasco County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) press release, the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners has activated the Emergency Operations Center, located at 8744 Government Dr. in New Port Richey, after issuing a “Local State of Emergency,” effective as of 10 a.m. Monday, June 25. However, Pasco schools, courts and county offices will remain open today, as well as the Pasco County bus lines.

A tornado watch is in effect for the area until 2 p.m. June 25 and five to six additional inches of rain are expected over the next several days. Those who wish to evacuate due to flooding can make their way to the Fasano Hurricane Shelter, located at 11611 Denton Ave. in Hudson. Sandbags are also being provided at several locations throughout the county, including the West Pasco Government Center (7536 State St. in New Port Richey), Fire Station #10 (7918 Rhodes Rd. in Hudson), Fire Station #17 (2952 Seven Springs Rd. in New Port Richey) and Fire Station #1 in Zephyrhills (6907 Dairy Rd.).

PCSO urges any residents needing assistance to call the Resident Information Center at (727) 847-8959.