Hillsborough County has extended its Local State of Emergency until next Tuesday, September 19th.
The county's emergency manager, Preston Cook, said the extension will allow more time for the area to procure more equipment, generators and other state and federal resources.
Cook said Tuesday that one of the biggest challenges is restoring power to residents and getting schools reopened.
He says, so far, there are no reports of significant structural damage in the county, but flooding is a big concern.
Neighborhoods along the Alafia River have already experienced flooding and that could get worse if the already-swollen Alafia river overflows.
More than 45 shelters had opened. All are closed with the exception of the USF Sun Dome, which is being used as a special needs shelter and one that can help those without power.
There is new information on schools. The Pinellas and Hillsborough School Districts have announced that schools WILL REOPEN Monday, September 18th.
(Photo courtesy of TJ Capobianco)