TARPON SPRINGS, Fla. — In preparation for Hurricane Idalia, Advent Health North Pinellas Hospital evacuated more than 60 patients Tuesday.
Those patients have been moved to other Advent Health hospitals.
What You Need To Know
- Advent Health North Pinellas Hospital evacuated more than 60 patients Tuesday
- Meanwhile, hospitals across the region are taking a variety of steps to prepare for the storm
- Tampa General Hospital is using an aqua fence as part of its preparations
- LIVE UPDATES: Tracking Idalia in Tampa Bay
- Here's what is closed because of Idalia
Advent Health officials said all procedures, including surgeries, are being rescheduled.
Still, hospital officials said the facility’s emergency room would stay open until 3 p.m. Tuesday and the ER in Palm Harbor will stay open for normal hours.
Meanwhile, hospitals across the region are taking a variety of steps to prepare for the storm.
Tampa General Hospital is using an aqua fence as part of its preparations.
The aqua fence is a barrier that stretches around the hospital and can hold back water. It can protect against a surge up to 15 feet above sea level.
HCA Florida Trinity West Hospital in New Port Richey, Florida West Tampa Hospital and Florida Pasadena Hospital all moved patients to other HCA facilities as a precaution.
They did not disclose the number of patients moved.
Also, physician practices in Pinellas are closed with practices in Hillsborough and Pasco closing mid-afternoon Tuesday.
Doctor practices in Polk County are remaining open.