PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. — Cities and counties around Tampa Bay are rushing to remove as much storm debris as possible before Hurricane Milton approaches Wednesday.

A major concern for officials and residents alike is that storm debris left curbside from Hurricane Helene will cause serious damage if taken by the wind during the approaching storm.

What You Need To Know

  • Gov. DeSantis calling for all state assets that can help with debris removal to do so

  • In Pinellas, newly contracted public works teams are assisting in unincorporated areas

  • Long wait times reported at Pinellas solid waste disposal facility early Monday

  • In Tampa, Mayor Jane Castor says manpower has been a problem

In response to an executive order signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis over the weekend, many Tampa Bay area debris management and dump sites are open 24/7, so those looking to dump their storm debris can do so.

Early Monday morning, some residents reported waiting three to four hours in line overnight at the Pinellas County Solid Waste Disposal Facility.

DeSantis says he’s pouring all available state resources into debris pick up in the coastal areas of Pinellas and Manatee counties, as well as other affected spots.

“All assets that can help with debris removal are being marshaled to help remove the debris,” he stated Sunday. “So, if FDOT has dump trucks in Seminole County that can be used to help remove debris on the barrier islands, then they’re going to do that. We’re using everything at our disposal to help get the debris off.”

In Pinellas County, 24-7 free access to disposal sites will continue until Hurricane Milton arrives. Additional public works teams will pick up debris from unincorporated areas alongside the contracted debris removal company.

Officials in Pinellas County say they’re also working on coordinating with FDOT and the Florida National Guard on a special mission to remove debris from the barrier islands and other hard-hit areas.

In Tampa, Mayor Jane Castor said Sunday the city is struggling to find enough manpower.

“Our contractor was supposed to be here Saturday morning with 20 trucks and showed up with three. Fortunately, the state has allowed us to go outside of contracts and allow any and everybody to pick up that household debris,” she explained.

The city is now looking for any and all licensed and insured contractors to assist in debris removal.

Tampa’s solid waste director is advising that any debris not picked up by the end of the day on Tuesday to keep it as contained as possible behind your home.