An evacuation of Zone A in Hampton Roads and the Eastern Shore has been issued in advance of Hurricane Florence.
According to the National Hurricane Center, Florence at 11 a.m. Tuesday has sustained winds of 130 mph (215 kph), but it remains a Category 4 storm and is expected to intensify to near Category 5 status as it slows over very warm coastal waters.
If you do not have a place to stay, there are emergency shelters available in Hampton and Newport News.
Emergency shelters are used to provide an evacuation location for residents in case of emergency or disaster.
You should consider friends, relatives and hotels/motels as alternatives to emergency shelters.
If authorities recommend evacuation, you should leave the area instead of relying on emergency shelters.
The cities recommend having enough food and water for 3 days for each family member staying in the shelter.
If you find yourself unable to evacuate in Newport News without help call 757-933-2311.
If you’re in Hampton, call 757-727-8311.
In the event of a large evacuation, the city will utilize school buses and post instructions.
Newport News will be handing out free sandbags for residents (proof of residency required) on Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 511 Oyster Point Road.
Residents can pick up 20 bags per person, while supplies last.
Items you should bring to shelters
- Any medications or special needs equipment as well as caregivers
- air mattresses, blankets, and pillows
- Special items for babies and toddlers, the elderly and handicapped
- reading materials and games
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, etc.)
- Clothing
- Water (at least one gallon per person per day for three days)
- Non-perishable food; special diet foods, including foods for seniors and infants
- First aid kit
- Important documents
- Reading materials and games
- Battery operated radio, flashlight and extra batteries
Emergency shelters in Hampton
At 11 a.m. Tuesday the first shelters to open will be at Phenix School, 1061 Big Bethel Road. This shelter will be for those with medical needs and the general population.
Residents with pets can go to adjacent Bethel High School at 1067 Big Bethel Road. Bring bedding, crates, etc. for your animals.
If you are leaving your car behind the city parking garage on Settlers Landing road is available.
There is also parking available on the third floor and ground floor of the garage at Peninsula Town Center.
Langley Airforce Base has two emergency evacuation centers open at the Shellbank Fitness Center and Bethel Manor for active duty military members and their families.
Both centers will open at 3 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 12.
They are staffed with medical, services and security personnel and have cots, water and MREs that are available for purchase.
Emergency shelters in Newport News
At noon Wednesday the following shelters will be opened in the city:
- Denbigh High School – 259 Denbigh Blvd. (General population)
- Menchville High School – 275 Menchville Road (Medically dependent and general population)
- Warwick High School – 51 Copeland Lane (General population and residents with pets)
If you are coming with your pets to Warwick High School then you must remain at the shelter with your pets, no drop-offs.
Remember food/water for your animals.
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