Storm Warnings
PSTA recommends that passengers keep a close watch on any storm and evacuate right away when suggested by Pinellas County Emergency Management. PSTA will phase out regular bus service as a storm approaches in order to provide evacuations and will halt service once a storm has Tropical Storm Force Winds (40 mph).
Emergency Transportation Plan
In the event of a hurricane, PSTA works with Pinellas County Emergency Management to assist with evacuation by providing bus transportation to designated shelters. A list of the shelters and routes that serve them will be posted prior to a pending storm.
There are also several locations where passengers can transfer and ride to a shelter with available space. The transfer locations are: Park Street Terminal, Grand Central Station, Westfield Countryside Mall, Tyrone Square Mall and Pinellas Park Transit Center.
Pets will be permitted on evacuation buses as long as they are in an airline-style pet carrier. During evacuations, large dogs may be brought on board with a muzzle. Passengers who plan to evacuate to a shelter that accepts pets must pre-register with Pinellas County Animal Services by calling 727-582-2600.
Citizens who need transportation to a “special needs” shelter must pre-register with Pinellas County Emergency Management by calling 727-464-3800. Call your nearest fire department or home healthcare provider or submit a form online.
PSTA will resume normal service as soon as possible after a storm passes. PSTA will keep the local media updated about the status of service, so tune in to your local news provider for the most up-to-date information.