TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A mandatory evacuation order has been issued for Hernando County Residents who live west of U.S. 19, starting Wednesday morning.
Hernando County Schools will be closed on Wednesday and Thursday.
Residents in Hernando County are preparing for whatever Tropical Storm Helene brings.
Robert Hanley was one of many residents who were busy filling sandbags to help protect their homes.
"It's happened so many times here, I'm kind of used to it," said Hanley.
Pamela Schneider filled up sandbags to take to her home. She has also been through flooding before.
"I'm down in Hernando Beach and I'm going to put them along my garage door, my front door, my back door, tape up the doors and then bring all of my outdoor furniture in," said Schneider.
She says after she does all she can to prepare her home, she plans to evacuate.
"I'll go stay with a friend and take things that are important to me," Schneider said. "Pictures, and such like that, out of my house with me."
Hernando County officials plan to reopen sandbag locations at 7:00 a.m. on Wednesday to allow residents to prepare as best they can.