Hurricane Season is Over

We definitely got off easy this year, the 2007 Atlantic Hurricane season officially came to a close on November 30th. According to NOAA.gov we had a total of 14 named storms, including six hurricanes, two of which became major hurricanes. NOAA's update in August mentioned 13-16 named storms, having 7-9 become hurricanes--with 3-5 major hurricanes of Category 3 strength or higher.
One hurricane, one tropical storm and 3 tropical depressions struck the United States, Tropical Depression Barry came ashore near Tampa Bay on 6/2. Tropical Depression Erin hit Southern Texas on 8/16, and Tropical Depression Ten came ashore along the western Florida panhandle on 9/21. Tropical Storm Gabrielle hit east-central North Carolina on 9/9, and Hurricane Humberto hit the upper Texas coast on 9/13.
NOAA will announce its 2008 hurricane outlooks for the Atlantic in May.

Slow Hurricane Season here in Pasco County, we are through the M storm, Melissa, and no significant winds or downpours...which is a good thing.
New laminated "Extreme Weather Information Sheet 2007" are available at the branches issued by the NOAA, thanks to Emergency Management for the supply.

Pasco County taking Applications for Pet Shelter Registration

Evacuating with your Pets

In an agreement reached between Pasco County Boad of County Commissioners and the District School Board of Pasco County, Pine View Middle School, 5334 Parkway Blvd., Land O' Lakes will be used as a Pet Friendly Shelter. This one year pilot program will allow for the sheltering of 200 cats and 100 dogs during emergencies. The shelter is intended for pet owners who have no other options and are at risk if they stay home with their pets. Based on available shelter space some limitations have been imposed.
Preregistration is required starting Wednesday August 15, 2007. Residents can pick up applications at any Pasco County Library..

Only cats and dogs will be accepted.

Currently, only residents who reside in Evacuation Level A and/or a mobile home are eligible for this program on a first come, first served basis.

Only two pets per household can be accepted into the program at this time.

While in the shelter, pets will be secured in their cages or carriers.

Pet owners will be sheltered across the street at Pine View Elementary School during the Emergency and will be allowed scheduled visits to walk, feed and clean up after their pets.

The registration form outlines additional details concerning shots, cages, supplies, etc.

All applications will be screened and residents will be notified as to whether they have been accepted for this pilot program. For further information please contact the Pasco County Division of Animal Services at 813-929-1212, 727-834-3216, or 352-521-5194 (press 0 to speak to an operator).

The form for pet registrations is located here.