Critical Risk Florida  ·  Hurricane / Storm Surge

Pinellas County FL

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & DISASTER RISK PROFILE  ·  LAST UPDATED: Mar 2026

9/ 10
Threat Score
Population
959107
Area
280
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Hurricane / Storm Surge
FEMA Disasters
65
federally declared

Pinellas County is a peninsula surrounded on three sides by water, making it one of the most hurricane-vulnerable and difficult-to-evacuate counties in the US. With no interstate highway and limited bridge crossings, evacuation routes are critically constrained. Hurricane Helene in 2024 produced record storm surge that flooded coastal communities. A direct major hurricane strike could be catastrophic.

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 9 / 10    Critical Risk
Primary Hazard Hurricane / Storm Surge
Secondary Hazard Flooding
FEMA Flood Zone Zone VE (Critical Risk)
Federally Declared Disasters 65
Last Major Event Hurricane Helene (2024)
Event Frequency Major event every 3–4 years

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (727) 464-3800
Emergency Shelters 35 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes US-19 North, I-275 North, SR-60 East, Gandy Bridge

// Recommended Preparedness Gear

Based on Pinellas County FL's primary hazard profile (Hurricane / Storm Surge), the following gear is recommended for a Critical risk area.

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// County Profile

County Pinellas County FL
State Florida (FL)
Population 959107
Area 280 sq miles
FEMA Region Zone VE (Critical Risk)

// Other Florida Counties