Now that a mandatory evacuation order has been issued for Zone A and Zone B, Tampa Bay hurries to prepare for any damage.

Since Sunday, Sept. 25, three sites dispersing sand bags opened in the Bay Area for Tampa residents who showed valid identification.

Windows of homes, businesses and properties have been shuttered and boarded up. Hillsborough County public schools have taken the last few days to prepare their space as evacuation shelters.

“I continue to be humbled by the dedication our teachers and staff have shown to evacuees and first responders at our schools that have now transitioned into shelters,” HCPS Superintendent Addison Davis stated in a recent tweet.

Leaving their homes behind, many Robinson students are evacuating out of Tampa entirely

“It’s pretty scary having to evacuate knowing that possibly your house could be destroyed when you come back, but my family and I are trying to have a positive outlook as we head to Orlando with our cat and dog,” Maddy Ruyle (‘23) said.

While some are evacuating, others are still behind to hold the fort down. Tampa Bay is expected to get 12 to 18 inches of rain through Thursday night.